COMMUNITY
As restrictions ease and lockdowns end, we think a vital road to recovery is making the conversation around mental health more visible. That’s why we recently combined forces with Gotcha4Life, launching a free connection workshop for our community that tackles the stigma around mental health.
We invited some familiar faces along to share their experiences staying on top of their own mental health. We hope you might find some inspiration here to help with your own journey for connection!
Emma is an entrepreneur, lifestyle expert and mother
“I try my hardest to stay connected with friends and family – it’s a two-way benefit that way! Whenever I’m driving on my own, I try to call a friend or family member that I haven’t spoken to in a while, just to chat.”
Belle is an Australian snowboard champion and Winter Olympian
“When I feel stuck, I express it on paper. I keep breaking it down until I find the source of the problem. Then, I brainstorm ideas to fix it. By the time I’ve written it all down, time has passed to let my emotions settle and I find more clarity.”
Brad is a television presenter and sports journalist
“I walk nearly every day. No headphones, no phone – just me and nature, tuned into the sounds around me. I feel better afterwards every single time. I focus on kindness. Helping others improves my own well-being and mindset. I often refer to my 'gratitude list' – the things that I know I can look forward to every day – like walking, coffee, music, conversation, food and cuddling our cat.”
Glen is a former Australian cricketer and bowling champion
“I love to jump in my LandCruiser and head back out bush. The wide-open spaces and red dirt recharges my batteries. Then sometimes, I’ll just go online and watch some old footage of my playing days. That always puts a smile on my face.”
Katie is a star AFLW footballer and captain of Richmond Football Club
"I love to start my day with a swim in the ocean. The combination of fresh air, saltwater and mindfulness helps me be grateful for what I have. With my family up in Queensland, I love to connect through regular FaceTime chats, which never fails to brighten my day. "
Harry is an Australian rally driving champion
“Someone much smarter than me once told me that humans need three simple things each day to achieve balanced mental health and happiness; Social Interaction, Cognitive Stimulation, and Physical Activity. I try to incorporate each of these into my day. I also believe in getting outdoors and exercising in the elements. I think too many of us spend all our time at a desk or indoors, so just switching off from work and taking a walk can help hit all three principals."
Lewis is a breakthrough rally talent
“Whenever I'm having an off day or feeling down, I find getting outside and going for a run or taking my dog for a walk really helps clear my head. Another thing that helps me mentally is trying to mix up fitness activities from week to week. Whether if it's with family and friends or by myself – it’s just about enjoying getting outside each day!”
Emma is a television presenter, journalist and producer
“Recognising when I'm feeling overwhelmed, communicating with myself and those around me, is vital for my mental health. When this happens, I find making lists is super helpful so I have a plan of attack. Other ways I take care of myself weekly is taking 24 hours away from social media, which helps me avoid procrastination, and getting outside in the fresh air to move my body.”
Nobody should ever feel like they are struggling alone. There are various organisations dedicated to helping Australians with their mental health. If you or someone you know needs help, visit:
Lifeline: www.lifeline.org.au or 13 11 14
