Innovative support: The RFDS Far North Mental Health and Wellbeing team partners with Swift FNQ to provide the Horse Wisdom program from Emma Jackson’s Cape York cattle station. Photo: www.swiftfnq.com
One of our greatest community contributors and services has reflected on another busy year and more than a decade of support for the state’s north.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) (Queensland Section) Far North Mental Health and Wellbeing team provides services in 15 locations across Cape York and operates a child and parenting program in the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Manager Jos Middleton said the team offered psychological therapy for those experiencing mild to moderate mental health challenges, utilising primary face-to-face counselling with occasional telehealth options.
“We also have two programs focused on disaster recovery that cover an area from Hopevale down to Mossman and Atherton and Mareeba shires,” Jos said.
“These programs primarily focus on working with people who have been impacted by a natural disaster.”
He said counselling sessions and community education supported resilience, preparedness, and increased mental health literacy.
“It’s about guiding people to build resilience so they can prepare for the next hit life throws their way,” Jos said.
“The work we do across all programs is critical in supporting people living in rural and remote areas as the evidence tells us First Nations people experience higher rates of suicide and psychological distress.”
He said the team also supported primary producers in rural and remote locations because they were also at higher risk of suicide.
“It’s important we’re there to help all individuals and families navigate their way through stress, anxiety, relationship issues, depression, addictions, trauma and more.”
Thousands of Queenslanders have continued to benefit over the years as the team continues to look for new and innovative ways to help residents get back on their feet.
“As well as the more prominent programs, we continue to successfully partner with Emma Jackson from Swift FNQ to provide the Horse Wisdom program from her Cape York cattle station,” Jos said.
“Emma has a background in psychology and expert horsemanship and has developed an equine-assisted learning program rolled out to participants over two days.
“Now in its third year, the program has been successful in fostering personal growth, reflection and lasting improvements in wellbeing for those who’ve embraced it.”
RFDS (Queensland Section) Far North Mental Health and Wellbeing services are supported by the Northern Queensland Primary Health Network and Queensland Government.
