The group is an intitiave of the Deniliquin Mental Health Awareness Group.
It started in August of 2022 and is steadily growing and currently has 135 members.
“The resources will be varied and cover topics that are common issues that children and young people can present with, or are presented with, when it comes to dealing with the many developmental phases they go through,” MHAG member Lourene Liebenberg said.
“Although the group is private, anyone can join and we want to encourage all parents and carers and educators to join so as to gain an awareness of the incredible information and support that is available online.
“We share information about two to three times per week on a variety of topics, including online webinars for parents.”
The group is being moderated by local mental health professionals and clinicians.
They often receive information about workshops, webinars and online programs which families can benefit from.
They hope the group is a place where they can alert parents, carers and educators to these opportunities,
As an example, Headspace is running several online parent and carer sessions during the month of April, with ‘Supporting Young People in the school holidays; practical tips for parents and carers’, ‘Supporting young people’ and ‘Support young people with grief and loss’ just some of the topics.
“We hope for the group to become an interactive space,” Mrs Liebenberg said.
“People can choose to ask questions or post anonymously. We hope this will encourage people to share and ask questions in a safe space.
“There are many helplines for parents as well, where they can receive advice and support online, and it is all free and often available 24/7.
“We know that accessing face-to-face services can be challenging for several reasons. We want to ensure people know there are other options as well”.
To join the Facebook group, search for ‘Families Stronger Together in Deni’.
Local groups are encouraged to share the flyer with their members. It and other resources are available at www.denimentalhealth.org.au.
• 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.
