Wellbeing Team to help Club and Community launches
1st October 2020
In October 2019 Alpine Health was approached by the Alpine Saints Myrtleford Football and Netball club to help to develop a wellbeing team. The aim of the team is to provide support for those who are experiencing mental health issues and need a confidential ear to listen and direct to the appropriate supports or services, before issues escalate. We are encouraging people to talk and “be kind to your mind”, especially through these challenging times which have changed the way we work, live and play.
All of the team members have been specifically trained to identify the signs and symptoms of ill mental health and are ready and to have conversations as a way of destigmatising mental health issues. This is a grassroots initiative with dedicated members made up of local community members from the club and beyond. The Wellbeing team comprises, health professionals, board members, players and supporters who want the club to be seen more than just a place for sport but a club that supports its whole community. We know that sport provides a huge boost to mental wellbeing through social connectedness and physical activity. It also plays a vital role in building awareness on this subject as well as building essential skills so people can recognise poor mental health and know what to do.
Alpine Health who auspice Communities That Care Alpine is the lead agency for the Local Drug Action Team and has worked with the club to develop a comprehensive wellbeing plan, through funding provided by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation Local Drug Action Team program.
As the Alpine Saints Myrtleford Football and Netball Club is a level 3 Accredited Good Sports club with a suite of policies including illicit drugs and alcohol, the successful grant through the ADF rounds off a culture that values everyone from players to supporters, club officials and the broader community.
The Wellbeing plan focuses on embedding this team into every area of the club. Beginning with policy and board representation on the wellbeing Team, upskilling and building capacity of Wellbeing Team through educational opportunities, developing a brand and social media presence, through to running events that have a mental health focus. And finally focus is also given to embed self-care strategies for the Wellbeing Team via professional supervision. Alpine Health is proud to be able to support this awesome volunteer group to build a culture of care and compassion, as well good old competition and rivalry.
The Alpine Saints MFNC Wellbeing Team officially launches on 10th October – World Mental Health Day. If you would like more information about this initiative, please contact Lisa Neville [email protected] and find us on the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/mfncsaints/
#mentalhealthawareness #worldmentalhealthday #helpishere #bekindtoyourmind
@beyond-blue @tackle-your-feelings @headspace @mental-health-australia @black-dog-institute @lifeline @alcohol-and-drug-foundation @alpine-health
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Photo: John Pryor, member of the MFNC wellbeing team
26/10/20 - See more at the Alcohol & Drug Foundation - Mental health support for sporting communities in the Alpine region