The Central Highlands Rugby League this weekend will turn blue to spread the message that if you are feeling blue, there are many avenues of support to help you get back on track, or in this case, the footy field.
In conjunction with the NRL’s State of Mind campaign, all Central Highlands players and referees in Round 12 of the Purcell’s Engineering Competition will wear blue socks in an attempt to tackle the stigma around mental illness and encourage all players, referees, support staff, volunteers and supporters to seek help by improving mental health literacy.
As the country’s biggest health issue, one in two Australians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime with suicide the largest killer of individuals aged 15-44.
Central Highlands Rugby League President Frank Lambley says the aim of the round is particularly important here in the Central Highlands, with the economic downturn affecting a majority of the Central Highlands.
“With the current unsteady workforce conditions and economic downturn, times are a little bit tough here at the moment. These work pressures, combined with other family and social pressures may cause a need for some people in the region to seek help” Lambley said.
“After the sad passing of a Northern Territory miner in a mining camp this week and the changing landscape of mine site accommodation, there are many great services out there that can help and I urge everyone to help one another during these trying times.”
Lambley hopes the importance of this week’s fixtures will start the conversation around the region.
“As the largest male and female sporting code in the Central Highlands, we really hope we can start the conversation and show our players, referees, support staff, volunteers and spectators that talking about your feelings shouldn’t be awkward.”
The NRL have formed a partnership with Kids Helpline, the Black Dog Institute, Headspace and Lifeline as part of its State of Mind campaign.
More information about the NRL’s State of Mind program can be found online at www.nrlstateofmind.com.au.
If you or someone you know is in need of crisis or suicide prevention support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au/gethelp.
