Boorowa Rotarian Lyn Diskon is keen for locals to attend the meeting this Sunday 1 December, to discuss mental health. Photo: Sally Hopman.
In Boorowa, a farming community in the Hilltops region of south-west NSW, like many rural and remote regions, they don’t talk much about mental health issues.
For some it’s a sign of weakness, of admitting that you can’t cope with what’s going on in your life and in the lives of people you care about.
Often it’s only when people gather at the worst of times, say at a funeral, that they feel they can talk about it – when it’s too late.
For members of Boorowa’s Rotary Club, it’s more than time for a change.
This Sunday 1 December, a public meeting will be held in town for locals to be introduced to TIMBA (This Is My Brave Australia), a mental health charity that uses storytelling to help break down the stigma associated with mental illness.
Lyn Diskon from Boorowa Rotary said the local community was invited to take part in the session this Sunday, telling their own stories whether through art, poetry, song or any form of creative experession they felt comfortable with.
“Together with TIMBA, a safe space will be created to shine a light on mental health, help others feel seen and heard and offer hope to those who need it most,” Lyn said.
Sunday’s meeting is the first step in the process of the community working together to help each other with locals invited to meet the producers from TIMBA.
“You’ll have the chance to ask questions, hear about how you can participate and get involved in this life-changing initiative,” she said. “Don’t miss the chance to be part of something special – your story has the power to save lives.”
Locals will be encouraged to plan and be part of a future production, a process that may take six months to develop.
The production will cover a variety of issues, from trauma, emotional upset, separation, anxiety, depression, gender and sexual identity.
The range of health issues covered in the production will depend on the participants.
Sponsored by Boorowa Rotary, which received a donation of $6000 from Mainline Dyno, the club will also contribute $4000 to anything else needed.
Interested people are invited to attend the meeting this Sunday 1 December, at 2 pm at the Boorowa Central School Library.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can contact:
Lifeline’s 24-hour crisis support line – 13 11 14
Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800 or kidshelpline.com.au
MensLine Australia – 1300 789 978.
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