'START a Sconversation' - that's the message to our community from the Country Women's Association of NSW in the run to its annual Awareness Week starting on Sunday.
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The CWA's Awareness Week (September 1-8) will this year focus on women's mental health awareness and support services in regional, rural and remote communities, and how all of us can help make a difference when it comes to maintaining robust mental health in ourselves and in those around us.
With ongoing drought continuing to be a major challenge in many parts of the State - presenting enormous mental health implications in rural and regional areas - the CWA of NSW feels there's an urgent need to shine a spotlight on the issue.
CWA of NSW State president, Stephanie Stanhope, said one of the organisation's main messages this Awareness Week is the importance of a support network and regular catch-ups - or a 'Sconversation' - with friends.
"The CWA of NSW has long been a supportive social network for women so the power of a Sconversation - boil the jug, sit down and enjoy a cuppa and a chat - is well known. It's the chance to talk about how you're feeling in a safe and supportive environment, and ask for assistance should you need it," she said.
"For those who are listening it's an opportunity to offer support and some advice if you think it's required."
Women on the land particularly, Stephanie said, were often required to wear many different hats, and during the ongoing drought, may also be supporting a partner under enormous pressures, while also nurturing children suffering the mental health impacts of drought.
"These kinds of pressures will take a toll on anyone, and we all owe it to ourselves to be aware of family or friends who may be struggling, and also take notice of our own mental health and reach out if we need to," she said.
"Just talking about a problem with people we trust can often make the world of difference, or be the first step in finding more professional support services.
"Maintaining strong mental health - and seeking support services - is challenging enough in country communities. The tyranny of distance is very real. It impacts on the number of support services and access to them, the opportunities for socialising and relaxation activities, and can mean geographical isolation for those outside regional communities.
"The drought is just another factor they're dealing with at present, and we want to ensure people are aware the drought hasn't finished - or even eased. For many regions things are worsening and health practitioners are warning the mental health implications are enormous."
The CWA of NSW has produced a handy reference card for branch members to distribute during Awareness Week, with the organisation's famous scone recipe on one side.
"We hope our information card is one way for people to feel more comfortable about talking to people who may be struggling and gently offer some details around where they can find support," Stephanie said.
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