CBH make regional mental health a conversation

A new campaign launched today by CBH Group Board raises awareness of mental health in regional WA.

Four Directors, including Newdegate farmer and Chairman Wally Newman, shared personal experiences in partnership with the Black Dog Institute and Lifeline WA.

The campaign involves a video series of the directors discussing how mental health has impacted each of them or their communities personally.

A video will be released each day this week on the CBH social media channels.

Mr Newman said that the campaign aimed to remove the stigma attached to mental illness and encourage those who live regionally to seek help if needed.

“While agriculture is a great industry and our country towns have strong communities, farmers do it tough from time to time, particularly in poor seasons,” he said.

“Men in remote and rural communities too are at greater risk of suicide compared with their city counterparts,

“We developed our campaign to send a message to anyone experiencing depression or poor mental health that they are not alone, there is hope and there are people who can help.”

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, every day one person dies by suicide in WA, noting that the rate is higher in regional areas than in Perth.

Black Dog Institute Acting Director Nicole Cockayne said the campaign reminded people living in rural communities that there are methods available for seeking help.

“Many people in regional communities find it difficult to know where to turn when they or someone they know is experiencing symptoms of mental illness,” She said.

Sunday September 10 marked world suicide prevention day.

If you are experiencing mental health issues or know someone who is and would like to speak with someone contact please contact LifeLine WA on 13 11 14..