NPA Men’s Network founder Pafetai Morseau said a mental health initiative dedicated to men was much needed in the region. Photo: Supplied.
A new men’s mental health group will be formed in the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) thanks to a grant targeted at reducing suicide in North Queensland.
The NPA Men’s Network will be funded by the Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) Targeted Regional Initiative for Suicide Prevention (TRISP) program, which aims to promote accessible and affordable community-led mental health initiatives.
NPA Men’s Network founder Pafetai Morseau said a program dedicated to the wellbeing of men in the community was a long time coming.
“In partnership with NQPHN, we identified a need to provide an innovative way of improving men’s mental health support and suicide awareness, and promote overall health and wellbeing,” he said.
“Our goal is to address social issues, create positive role models, and strengthen cultural connections by moving past traditional healthcare methods.
“Starting a men’s network in the NPA will allow men to support each other, build resilience, and create a stronger community.”
Mr Morseau said the network would be available to men from all five NPA communities, adding that while it would be based in Seisia, much of the time will be spent outdoors on Country.
“We have a variety of activities, including men’s workshops, connecting to and caring for Country and culture, marine debris clean-ups and conservation, jet ski fishing and working with rangers,” he said.
“This is an innovative and culturally appropriate initiative that will help participants’ wellbeing by combining discussions and strategies on mental health with outdoor and cultural activities to create a holistic support network.”
The NPA network was one of 13 community groups to receive the TRISP grant, which are valued at up to $50,000.
NQPHN interim chief executive officer Ben Tooth said the grants would help address factors that contributed to suicide across the region.
“In the past 12 months, our teams have actively engaged with a diverse and inclusive range of people regarding community wellness and suicide prevention activities in North Queensland,” he said.
“We’ve been inspired by the innovative initiatives that have been created by and for the community, and more specifically, for their local area.”
