Bravus boosts regional mental health services for new mums

Bravus Mining and Resources has joined forces with White Cloud Foundation’s ‘Meals for Mums’ service to help new mums across north and central Queensland who are at risk of, or experiencing, perinatal depression.

With latest census results revealing approximately one in 10 Australians have been diagnosed with a mental illness, demand for professional help is at an all-time high.

Bravus Mining and Resources Chief Operating Officer Mick Crowe said providing practical support through the delivery of two weeks’ worth of nutritious meals was a small gesture which was making a big difference.

“As a father of four daughters myself I can clearly remember how amazing, yet difficult the early days and weeks of parenthood were,” Mr Crowe said.

“I think it’s easy to underestimate the difference something as simple as providing a few meals really can make in those early days and Bravus is proud to be supporting ‘Meals for Mums’.

“The program is designed to complement professional support and best of all, it’s free.”

The ‘Meals for Mums’ north and central Queensland service has so far:

• Supported 110 families
• Received 137 referrals
• Delivered 1,613 meals
• Assisted 20 First Nations mums.

As part of its broader services, White Cloud Foundation has also created a free tele-mental health service. Since launching in August 2021, they have conducted more than 500 appointments, with over 50% of these for regional Queenslanders.

“Anyone who has tried to make an appointment with a psychologist or counsellor in the past 12 months will tell you that locking in a session with a specialist within a reasonable time frame is about as likely as the Wests Tigers winning this year’s NRL premiership,” Mr Crowe said.

“This service is free, there is no need to travel, and you don’t need a mental health plan so it really is accessible to anyone who needs it.”

While the White Cloud Tele-Mental Health Service has removed many of the barriers for seeking treatment and support, there is still a stigma attached to mental health.

White Cloud Foundation Founder Professor Adam Scott said that we all need to start thinking of our mental health in the same way we do our physical health.

“If we break a bone or feel crook, we go to the doctor.  If we’re not feeling mentally well, we should also get help,” Professor Scott said.

“There is nothing to feel ashamed about, we all go through it at some point.

“Speaking to someone neutral can really help and we have a great team of psychologists, social workers, counsellors, dietitians, and exercise physiologists who will support you from multiple angles.

“All you need to do is pick up the phone from wherever you are in Queensland and call 07 3155 3456.”

Bravus is proud to support White Cloud Foundation’s Townsville and Rockhampton services through its Community Partnership Program.

Since construction commenced on the Carmichael Mine and Rail Project, Bravus has contributed more than $2 million to not-for-profit, charities, school groups and other organisations across the project footprint.

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ENDS