Mental health support for drought affected communities
What is the Division’s Mental Health Support for Drought Affected Communities Program?
The prolonged drought is severely impacting communities in rural Australia.
Services Provided;
-
Crisis counselling for distressed individuals, families and communities
-
Activities that raise awareness of the impact of drought on mental health, and give people options for getting help
-
Working with GPs and other service providers to deliver services and support
Typical activities
Geraldine spends most of her time travelling, calling on farmers, small businesses and individuals to connect with people who have not previously accessed support or are in isolated rural and remote parts of the Division’s area. She also works with a wide range of health service and related providers to coordinate his activities, which enables her to extend a helping hand to as many people as possible.
The numerous activities of this program include;
-
In conjunction with the Central Highlands Division, setting up a mental health and Beyond Blue depression stall at a youth careers day at Seymour.
-
In conjunction with the Upper Hume Community Health Service, providing a ‘Looking after your Neighbour’ discussion session attended by 33 people.
-
Working with other agencies to hold a Men’s Health evening in Myrtleford with guest speaker Merv Hughes. Over 200 men attended the session.
For further information contact Geraldine Marshall (contact details provided).
Reviewed 16 February 2010