Our Well-Being Grants to Support Farming Communities team were very busy with various activities throughout Mental Health Month.

They attended multiple community events to talk about the mental health services and programs available in our region, and to promote help-seeking behaviours and reduce stigma. Our team encouraged the community to look at mental health the same way that they do their physical health. While most people know eating well, exercising and resting is good for your physical health, they often don't consider the benefits these can also have on their mental health.

To help engage the community, our new 'Happiness Tree' made its debut and assisted in starting conversations about self-care and what makes people happy. The tree proved very popular, particularly with young people and we had a multitude of responses. This exercise was beneficial in helping people to think about their well-being and the things they can do to look after their mental health.

Other highlights from October include the 'Garden of the Mind' event, produced by one of our Well-Being Grant recipients, Trybal Productions. This show was one of our first executed Grants and is the first to conclude.

Supported by mental health providers, the show highlighted the challenges faced by people with mental health conditions. It portrayed stories through poetry, monologues, art work, theatrical scenes, interviews, original songs, movement and dance. Over 150 members of the Lithgow community attended the event and from the feedback received, the performance exceeded all expectations. Those who participated reported that it was hugely beneficial, with many participants forming new friendships and new links with local health services.  

With the drought persisting and the need for additional services and programs across our region apparent, we are excited to announce that we are offering another round of Grant funding. We are open to a variety of proposals from community groups, individuals, sporting clubs and the like who can raise awareness of mental health, reduce stigma and improve community well-being.

Round 5 will close in the New Year on 28 February 2020.

We look forward to sharing more about our other Grant recipients over the coming weeks.