Getting men to the mental health table

Bringing men to the table.

Mental health support is on the way for Wyong men this Mental Health Month with The Men’s Table launching a local support group.

Central Coast Council have partnered with local Primary Health Network to establish a Men’s Table in the Wyong area.

The Men’s Table will host a community engagement pop up event at Bunnings Tuggerah on Saturday, 21 October from 10am to 4pm.

Council Unit Manager of Community and Culture Glenn Cannard said The Men’s Table program is a safe place for local men to come together to share and be heard in a confidential and non-judgemental environment, creating a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and connection.

“The Men’s Table’s first community engagement event aims to engage local men in the program and attract volunteers to assist with the on-going running of the program,” Mr Cannard said.

“According to the National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing, over two in five Australians aged 16-85 years had experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life.

“Beyond Blue statistics state that men make up an average of seven out of every nine suicides every day in Australia and Central Coast Health District has reported the highest number of deaths by suicide in Australia since 2016.”

Council Administrator Rik Hart said council was committed to creating new opportunities for connection, inclusion and community activities that strengthen our collective sense of self.

“Programs like Men’s Table allow us to work together to solve pressing social issues, to support those in need and enhance community safety,” Mr Hart said.

Council has a range of resources and information on men’s health referrals to download or collect from any Central Coast Council library or Wyong customer service centre including business cards, coasters and posters.

For more information about Men’s Table pop up and resources search ‘Men’s Table’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

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