1/02/2018

Gold Coast residents can improve their mental health by attending health and wellbeing groups located across the Coast, designed to support individuals with the wellness tools for balanced social, emotional mental wellbeing. Local high school teacher Leah Fineran, who participated in one of the programs at the end of 2017, says the program helped change her life for the better.

“For those hesitating about participating in one of these groups, I encourage you to take a chance,” she said. “I guarantee you will walk away with at least one valuable skill that will change your life.”

These free, small groups supported by Gold Coast Primary Health Network, help participants explore techniques for stress management, mindfulness, motivation and positive relationships and the importance of social connection. 

“My group was a mix of people with different backgrounds; different circumstances; different lives,” Leah said. “We were all so diverse and yet were all able to find what worked for us as individuals.”

Leah stressed the importance of people looking after their mental wellbeing and how everybody can benefit from learning new strategies on how to cope better with life. 

“Everybody could do with extra tips and tricks on how to cope with their busy lives,” she said. “Honestly it was just a really fantastic program.”

The programs are run by professionals in a safe and supportive environment and are for residents who are experiencing mild depression and/or anxiety. The current wellbeing groups are aimed at the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) community, people who identify with LGBTIQAP+, and people with substance use needs. A referral is not needed.

For further information visit www.healthygc.com.au/GCHealthWellbeing