By Eleanor Wilson
The Akoonah Park Men’s Shed is making mental health a priority for its members, hosting a Black Dog Institute talk this week labelled ‘Breaking Down Depression’.
The event, which takes place on Thursday 7 April, will see Black Dog Institute volunteer Chris Callinan speak to members about the signs and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, and educate members on how to help loved ones struggling with their mental health.
“It’s all about awareness, if we can touch one person to get out and reach for help, we’ve done our bit,” Mr Callinan said.
Akoonah Park Men’s Shed welfare and wellbeing leader Ernie Bird said demand for the event exceeded typical Men’s Shed members.
“Some people have said look, I think my wife would really benefit from this, so we’ve opened it up to wives, husbands and partners as well,” he said.
“The person suffering isn’t always able to take initiative themselves so having the wives there is fantastic.”
According to the Black Dog Institute, one in two Australians will experience mental illness in their lifetime.
Mr Bird said he hopes the talk will allow members to recognise the extent of mental health problems within the community.
“We always tend to think ‘that won’t happen to me’, but I hope the talk will make them recognise ‘maybe it does apply to me’,” he said.
Mr Bird said he hopes the Men’s Shed can fulfil its duty as a support network for men in the area.
“When someone comes to the shed, we want to ask them ‘how are you’, not ‘where is your donation’,” he said.
“You’ve got to show a presence and let them know you care.”
The Akoonah Park Men’s Shed services nearly 150 local men with a range of social, recreational and wellbeing activities.
It is celebrating its 10 year anniversary this June.
“Mental health is a huge part of what we go through, so the fact [Akoonah Park Men’s Shed] has a wellbeing component is fantastic.” Mr Callinan said.
If you or someone you know is in crisis and needs help now, call triple zero (000). You can also call Lifeline on 13 11 14 — 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
