Njernda has encouraged Echuca-Moama’s First Nation communities to come together for a mental health community barbecue and yarning circle on Friday, August 5, to connect and share resources in the wake of COVID-19 lockdowns.
Working Together For Health employee, Chris Cooper said the aim of the barbecue was to provide a casual environment for communities to have a yarn and find support and resources for mental health related issues.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can be really hesitant to open up when it comes to mental health,” Mr Cooper said.
“What we’re doing is providing a space for conversations to happen, and for resources, both Njernda and external, to be accessed for people who choose to utilise them.
“Now that we’re able to get together in groups, it’s important for Mob to come together and support one another.
“COVID-19 was a really isolating time for many people. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community is no exception to that, so it’s important to take this opportunity and get together to discuss a really important issue — mental health.”
Mr Cooper said Njernda health professionals, including staff from Echuca Regional Health, would be in attendance if anyone needed help or was looking for guidance on external resources.
“It will allow people to put a face to a name and have face-to-face contact with healthcare professionals who are in the know and in a position to help — whether they are with Njernda or an outside organisation,” he said.
“Information and resources will also be on hand for those who may not be comfortable asking for help in a face-to-face capacity.
“We’d really love to see everyone, from our Elders to our youth, come along, have a yarn, have a feed and get involved in the day.”
The mental health community barbecue will be held on Friday, August 5, from 11am to 1pm at Apex Park Hall.