PRACTICAL conversations around wellbeing, domestic and family violence, financial abuse, mental health and suicide prevention are vital during a drought, Lifeline Central West chief executive officer Stephanie Robinson says.
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With 100 per cent of the state now declared in drought, many primary producers are struggling with a range of issues.
In order to help, Lifeline has teamed up with the Country Women’s Association (CWA) for a roadshow of 12 free workshops, with one in Bathurst this Wednesday.
Ms Robinson said the workshop would raise awareness, build resilience, reduce stigma and equip people to respond to pressures in a way that promotes wellbeing and safety in the long-term.
“We all have a role to play in creating a vibrant, strong community that can stay resilient during challenges and support those who are struggling, to seek help,” she said.
“During tough times we are all impacted and need to be more vigilant, particularly facing the current drought.”
CWA NSW president Annette Turner said rural women were often the “emotional linchpin of their family” and they were instrumental in identifying potential health problems in their circles.
“These workshops will give practical help, resources and tools for communicating with family and loved ones who may be in distress and potentially at risk of suicide,” she said.
The workshops will be delivered by qualified trainers and give practical help, resources and tools for communicating with men who may be in distress and potentially at risk of suicide.
Topics will include: recognising, responding and referring to domestic violence; crisis and mental health including stress, depression, anxiety and suicide; financial abuse; building resilience and strategies for self-care.
The Bathurst workshop is on from 9am-1pm in the CWA Hall at 172 Russell Street. Call 1300 798 258 to register your attendance.
The roadshow has been funded by a $41,000 grant from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.