Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Nationals Mark Vaile has endorsed a national campaign developed by the Rural Doctors Association and beyondblue to encourage more rural Australians to seek help from their local GP for mental and physical health problems.
“The prolonged and crippling effects of the drought continue to have a devastating impact on our farmers, their families and communities right across rural and regional Australia”, Mr Vaile said
“We are all very aware of the sobering figures related to suicide- one life lost to suicide is one too many. We must encourage people to talk about their problems and not bottle things up.
“This campaign will help achieve two things- firstly, raise awareness in our rural communities of the symptoms of mental illness and educate people to recognise these symptoms amongst those close to them. Secondly, to encourage people who may be showing sighs of mental illness to talk to their local GP or seek advice from organisations such as beyondblue and Lifeline”, he said
The campaign was launched today by Minister Vaile, Minister for Health Tony Abbott MP, former Deputy Prime Minister Hon Tim Fischer AC, Chairman of beyondblue Jeff Kennett AC and President of the Rural Doctors Association Dr Peter Rischbieth at Parliament House today.
“The radio and TV community service announcements feature Hon Tim Fisher AC and encourage rural Australians to be aware of their mental and physical health and to seek treatment from their local GP, beyondblue or Lifeline if they experience depression or feel down.
“The launch is part of beyondblue’s “Don’t Beat around the Bush” National Drought Response Strategy and includes the release of a new kit of depression resources to support rural communities affected by the drought.
“beyondblue is also assisting in training local staff from rural businesses who have regular and direct contact with the farming community. They will be trained in identifying symptoms of mental illness and be able to recommend ways in which people can seek assistance,” Mr Vaile said.
Mr Vaile applauded the involvement of the many stakeholder groups that had agreed to help tackle one of Australia’s biggest health issues.