Lockhart River local Patrick has linked up with the RFDS to make a positive impact on men’s mental health through a new initiative - Walk, Talk, Yarn, Unite and Stand as one in support of Mental Health.
Walk, Talk, Yarn, Unite and Stand as one in support of Mental Health invites men from the region to meet at the Lockhart River Primary Health Care Centre for a walk to the beach to boost their physical and mental well-being.
RFDS Resident Medical Officer Sam McGill and RFDS Recognised Mental Health Counsellor Joseph Oui join the walk, which offers opportunities for men to have open and honest conversations about their health.
“It was great to see an initiative like this come from the community,” Sam said.
“This initiative links really well with the work we are doing in building relationships with the community and encouraging men, particularly young men, to feel comfortable at the clinic.”
The walk started with a few members from the Lockhart River men’s group and then gradually grew with support from the RFDS (Queensland Section) Mental Health team, Community Enterprise Queensland (CEQ) and Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council.
“I was more than happy to support this walk because it’s such a great way for us to promote a mental health initiative,” Joseph said.
“The walk has had a ripple effect on the community and has also activated the women’s group to do activities too.
“It’s all about having conversations, connecting with community and offering support to those who might need it.”
The Walk, Talk, Unite and Stand for Mental Health Awareness group meets at the Lockhart River Primary Health Care Centre every Tuesday afternoon at 5.30 pm if you, or anyone you know, would like to get involved.
