There is a special tree in the Parkes Shire Library and everyone can help to make it flourish and blossom. The tree was “planted” on a library window by Di Gill, Co-Ordinator of the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program last week as the theme for Mental Health Month in October is Learn and Grow. “Everyone is encouraged to write on a post it note what they have learnt to help them grow, and add it to the tree as leaves or blossoms,” said Di.
“There are also packets of seeds, donated by Greenparkes Nursery, for the taking for people to plant and watch them grow as gardening is very good for mental health.” According to Di nearly half of all Australians will experience some form of mental illness during their lifetime, and those that don’t will mostly likely know someone that does. “But there’s still a lot of stigma and confusion around the topic and that is where learning and growing comes in.” Cr Neil Westcott, attending his first function as a newly elected Councillor, said as a farmer mental health was a big part of
his life. “I am a smiling participant in these activities very dear to my heart.”
Cr Westcott launched the fifth edition of the Glove Box Guide for Mental Health at the event. The guide has personal stories of people living with a mental illness, as well as contact numbers of where people can find help.