Tackling issues like anxiety and depression head-on with real stories and expert guidance is exactly the kind of support that can shift perspectives and save lives.
Over the past five years, our club has organised numerous young men's mental health and well-being forums and the latest event, held recently, proved to be the best yet. The audience of 130 people consisted of a diverse range of attendees including Rotarians from local clubs, representatives from various community groups and football players from the under-18 teams at the Werribee Districts and Hoppers Crossing football clubs. Based on recent history, it was identified that these young men are vulnerable to mental health problems including depression and anxiety. Our club wanted to do something to support them by inviting speakers with either professional or life experiences to convey messages of hope and how to take positive action when the pressures of life seem to be too much to handle.
The keynote speaker was former AFL footballer, Peter "Spida" Everett who relayed stories of his challenges as a young teenager and as a professional footballer and how he dealt with any problems along the way. His very clear message was that when you are experiencing some dark or doubtful moments, you should speak to someone. Sometimes the effort to openly express your concerns lifts your spirits just as much as the advice you might receive from whoever you consult with.
Other speakers included Jake Lohman (Werribee Football Club player and mental health counsellor to high school students), Rhan Harris (Sport Coordinator at Reclink) and Simone Webbey (Youth Advocate at headspace).
Congratulations to our member Peter Sandlant for taking the lead role in organising this important forum.
Click here to view some photos of the evening.