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Helping communities caring for their mob
12 January 2008
Yarning is an important part of healing in Aboriginal culture – and it was the basis of a special day aimed at providing information about mental health issues and services.
The information day was organised by Hunter New England Health and held at the Tamworth Community Centre before Christmas.
The successful day brought together members of the Aboriginal communities from around the Tamworth region as well as representatives from a range of services. These included Hunter New England Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol services, respite and carer services, Centrelink and the Aboriginal Medical Service.
Mental Health Family Worker Claire Priestley said the day was the first of its type and aimed to talk about and provide information on mental health issues and the broad range of services available in the area.
“The day was called Caring for Our Mob and was aimed a providing the Aboriginal carers and family members with information on support services available for people living with mental illness and support services available for the carers themselves,” Claire said.
Studies indicate that one in five people will experience a mental illness.
“Carers and families are often the first people to know when someone is becoming unwell but it is hard to know where to turn for help.
“Hopefully people will have a better idea now of how to access support.”
The information day – which began with a Welcome to Country from Aboriginal elders Joe and Pearl Trindall – provided an opportunity for services to build partnerships with each other and with the community.
“Hunter New England Mental Health staff hope that through initiatives such as this, we can better support families and carers to continue Caring for Our Mob,” Claire said.
· Hunter New England Mental Health provides a range of specialist programs to serve the people of the Hunter and New England and Lower Mid North Coast regions. Services provide assessment, treatment, support, education, information and referral for anyone encountering mental distress. For mental health inquiries please contact 1300 669 757. For respite enquiries please contact 1800 052 222.
Contact: Frances Holz
Phone: 4939 2216
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