Weekly wrap - 15 October 2017

This week has been Mental Health Awareness Week and I want to start a conversation about the F word. That's right, I want to talk about the word ‘fine’, usually a response to the question "Are you ok?".

But what does it mean? 

In some cases, fine means just that, a person is OK, their day is OK and they're feeling OK. But often, it has a deeper meaning, and if you delve deeper through a supportive conversation, you can make a big difference to someone's life.

This week I've visited a number of organisations across Canberra to participate in their Mental Health Awareness Week activities. We've been speaking about starting a conversation and recognising the signs of when someone is not fine, but trying to put on a front of being fine in fear that someone will think ill of them. Along with conversations it's time we removed the stigma from mental health and promoted the truth in that feeling low is OK, getting help is crucial, and there is always someone you can talk to. If you feel you can't speak with family, friends or work colleagues, Lifeline councillors are always available on 13 11 14 to support you through open conversation. 

This week we have also been running Domestic Violence Alert training with organisations across Canberra. This important government-funded training initiative helps people to recognise some of the signs of domestic violence and equips them with some knowledge and skills in how they can help and support victims.

The string engagement with corporates across the Nation’s Capital this week is wonderful and shows that businesses across Canberra recognise the need to support their staff and encourage workplace wellness. If you would like to find out about how Lifeline Canberra can work with your organisation to promote workplace wellness and to provide mental health support and training, message me or visit the Corporate Training page on our website.

As part of our Mental Health Awareness Week and work with corporate Canberra, on Friday we held a fun (and competitive) touch football round robin, where organisations let their hair down (and strapped on their boots) to raise awareness of the importance of team support and working together to foster a good work culture. While the game faces were on, every team had a wonderful time and we were able to also raise funds to support our crisis support and suicide prevention phone line. Thank you to GLR Accountants, Much more than money, Callida, Leader Security, Elrington Lawyers, RSM Australia, Sennell, Vikings Group, Bradley Allen Love Lawyers, Aquis Entertainment, Construction Control, RPS Project Management, Dixon Advisory, Gillespie Group, McDonald's and Touch Football Australia for your participation and support! Thanks you also to Franco's Mobile Pizzeria and Pure Gelato.

Last, but not least, as you can see, I have returned from my trip to Canada. The trip was a huge success and I am grateful to my team for keeping the home fires burning so well in my absence. I’ll stay tight lipped on the Canada trip for now, but expect some great updates soon.

As we reach the end of Mental Health Awareness Week, I ask you to continue to have conversations, to listen attentively and to look beyond the word ‘fine’.