Life can sometimes feel heavy.
Work pressures, family responsibilities, financial stress, or personal challenges can build up over time.
Many people try to carry these burdens quietly, believing they should just push through.
The message of the Deniliquin Mental Health Awareness Group’s Share the Load initiative is simple but powerful — talking about a problem can help lighten the load.
“In Deni, we look out for our mates. You don’t have to tough it out alone,” said Deni MHAG president Lourene Liebenberg.
“Sometimes people think they need to be strong and handle everything themselves.
“But sharing what’s going on, even with a trusted friend or family member, can help break a problem into smaller, more manageable steps. That’s what Share the Load is all about.”
This week’s feature topic invites people to discover ways to talk things through, support a mate, and find services that can help when life feels heavy.
The page also highlights support services such as free counselling.
One such organisation is the TradeMutt Initiative called TIACS (This is a Conversation Starter).
They provide text or call support Monday to Friday 8am-10pm on 0488 846 988.
This is a free, confidential service which provides support for people in trades, construction, farmers and other industries.
Support is also available to a carer, friend or loved one of a blue collar worker who is doing it tough.
They provide up to eight free sessions with the same counsellor.
You can find out more at https://www.tiacs.org/.
“Whilst the message that ‘It’s okay not to be okay’ is part of the messaging people might be putting out there, it is crucial that this also be followed up with a message of encouraging help-seeking and ensuring pathways to help are clear,” Mrs Liebenberg said.
“When we share what’s weighing on us, the load becomes lighter.
“Looking out for each other helps build a stronger community.”
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.
