Sometimes the hardest thing to do is admit that everything isn’t fine.
Many people carry their struggles quietly, feeling pressure to stay strong, keep going, or not burden others.
But strength doesn’t come from pretending everything is okay.
A truly strong community is one where people feel safe enough to talk, and where listening is met with kindness, not judgement.
This week’s Sticky Topics campaign highlights the Brave Enough initiative from Deniliquin Mental Health Awareness Group — a message which highlights that courage doesn’t always look loud or bold.
Sometimes, courage is simply saying, “I’m not okay.”
The Brave Enough initiative was launched in October last year when Jelena Dokic visited Deniliquin.
She shared her powerful journey of speaking up, asking for help, and believing that things can change.
Her story reminded us that healing often begins with a conversation - even when that conversation feels difficult.
“In Deniliquin, we can be brave enough to take the first step and say, ‘I need help’,” Deni MHAG president Lourene Liebenberg said.
“We can be brave enough to notice when something doesn’t feel right and talk about it.
“And we can be brave enough to listen and support each other with kindness.”
The Deni MHAG website provides information on a wide range of mental health topics that people may be struggling with, as well as pathways to support.
At www.denimentalhealth.org.au/support/first-step you can learn how open conversations can reduce stigma, connect people with confidential local support, and find services available both day and night.
“Talking openly about mental health doesn’t mean having all the answers,” Mrs Liebenberg said.
“It means showing up, listening without judgement, and letting someone know they’re not alone.
“Because here in Deniliquin, we can be brave enough to take that first step — and when we do, support is never far away.”
The Sticky Topics campaign is funded by Firsthealth Limited and Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network Community Grants through the Federal Government’s PHN Program, and is supported locally by Edward River Council, Deniliquin Pastoral Times and Ace Radio/2QN.
• Anyone requiring crisis support can contact Accessline on 1800 800 944, Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. Resources and pathways to help are also available at www.denimentalhealth.org.au.
