Bowen Mental Health Hub keeping men “anchored”

Men across the Bowen region are coming together to work towards their goals and improve their mental wellbeing as part of a new program at selectability’s Bowen Mental Health Hub.

The program Anchored is designed for men of all ages and walks of life to come together and pass on knowledge and lived experience to “blokes” who need a positive role model.

Mental Health Hub peer support worker Fallon said the group helped consumers build social connections while planning activities focused on improving mental wellbeing and reducing stigma that is often attached to mental health.

"What we are seeing is amazing! Men are coming together to help tackle loneliness and support each other in making new connections and learning new skills," said Fallon.

"Some are looking to make new friends while others are coming to fill in time during retirement where they would have otherwise been sitting at home."

Anchored was created in response to increasing demand from men seeking help and looking to socialise with other men.

As Fallon explains they were often looking for alternative options from your traditional Men’s Shed.

"When we were listening to the guys the majority told us they wanted a safe space they could go and catch up for a coffee with no pressure or judgement."

To break the ice, the first group session was an introductory morning tea at a local café. 

"The guys went to Horseshoe Bay Café – they wanted to introduce themselves, discuss their hopes and work through a list of goals they wanted to achieve together.

"It’s been running for over a month now and the group is really starting to settle in and progress towards their goals."

As one consumer shared with us, "without this group, I feel like I would have perished these last few weeks".

"I’ve really gone through a lot these last few months and I’ve only had professionals to talk too. The comradery between like-minded men does wonders for your health – mental and physical," he said.

"Our group programs are becoming more and more popular as word spreads through town," said Fallon.

"Each week potential consumers come into the Hub during programs to see what goes on and get a feel for it," said Fallon.

For more information about selectability Bowen and to keep up-to-date with what is happening and to download our monthly timetables, head HERE.