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Business group emails mental health support with Lifeline

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October is Mental Health Month.

And, an Upper Hunter business group has started a simple initiative to help the wellbeing of others in the community, as well as back the organisation that supports so many.

Upper Hunter Women in Business (UHWIB) members have added a message to their email signatures to promote Lifeline’s services.

The missive reads: “Please do not suffer alone. If you need support phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or visit www.lifelinehunter.org.au

The initiative is the brainchild of local businesswoman and UHWIB founder Lavinia Hutchison to coincide with Mental Health Month.

“Some of our members, and many other Upper Hunter residents, have faced stress from drought, fires, industry closures and now COVID-19,” she explained.

“It’s a small gesture we can do at no cost, but it could potentially save a relationship, a business or a life. 

“More than ever, we need to encourage people to reach out for help and take care of their mental health and that of their staff and others in the community.

“UHWIB is about helping women to connect, communicate and collaborate but also supporting the social and economic development of our community.

“Lifeline, and its local volunteers, do such an amazing job in always being there for people.

“We hope the email signature also reminds people of the difference Lifeline makes to communities.”

Ms Hutchison is encouraging other businesses in the greater Hunter to join the campaign.

Lifeline in the Hunter senior business development manager Patrick Calabria thanked and congratulated UHWIB members for thinking about maintaining good mental health in their community.

“Calls to Lifeline from around Australia are up 25% since COVID-19 started and this is consistent in the Upper Hunter,” he said.

“Nationally, Lifeline is currently taking up to a record breaking 3,600 calls a day.

“Whatever personal issue or struggle you are facing, Lifeline is there to listen and to offer hope.

“If you know someone who is struggling, please remind them that we’re here to help via our 13 11 14 crisis support phone line, text service and web chat.

“Our counselling service is still operating via video (telehealth) during lockdowns where people see a qualified counsellor over a number of appointments to work through issues.”

UHWIB is a network of local businesswomen who support each other to grow each other’s confidence and businesses.

It is free to join and has 150 members from Singleton, Scone, Muswellbrook and surrounding areas.   

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