Farmers' mental health wellbeing gathering in Tamworth

10 July 2007

Tough times resulting from the ongoing drought are highlighting the need for communities to band together to support each other.

A farmers’ mental health gathering will be held in Tamworth on Friday 27 July at the Tamworth Community Centre.

“Looking after our mental and physical wellbeing is so important for us to be able to get through these tough times,” Drought Mental Health Worker for Hunter New England Mental Health Barbara Gilmore said.

“This forum will help people to strengthen their resilience and ability to help themselves and others, while identifying common mental health issues and where to seek help,” Ms Gilmore said.

“The forum will also help people improve their understanding and gain practical tips for helping themselves, family and neighbours,” she said.

Special guest speakers will present on the evening, discussing topics such as: ‘how can your GP help?’ and ‘combining agriculture and counselling’.

Local representatives of GPs, drought assistance agencies and mental health services will be on hand to answer questions.

Dinner is also included and the evening is free of charge. The forum is being funded by NSW Health under the NSW Government’s Drought Mental Health Assistance Package.

Students of the Tamworth Conservatorium of Music will provide musical entertainment and members of the CWA Tamworth Branch will provide catering.

It is a co-ordinated effort between NSW Health, the Centre for Rural and Remote Mental Health and the NSW Department of Primary Industries.

The forum will be held at the Tamworth Community Centre from 5.30pm.

Members of the community wishing to attend are asked to register and RSVP for catering purposes by Thursday, 19 July to Barbara Gilmore on 6767 8618 or Barbara.Gilmore AT hnehealth.nsw.gov.au

Contact: Shannon Ramadge

Phone: 4939 2216