Southland
Otago and Southland Fire and Emergency is a big advocate for mental health. Participating in Mullets for Mental Health, developing a serious of Facebook posts for Mental Health Awareness Week and now hosting a free community Mike King ‘I am Hope Tour’.
Firefighters attend vehicle accidents, house fires and medical events. It’s no wonder mental health is at the forefront of Fire and Emergency NZ focus.
“These events are distressing for firefighters. We know that attending incidents can affect the physical or psychological wellbeing of our people” said Assistant Area Commander, Scott Lindsay. “Because of this we advocate for mental health and are proud to host the ‘I am Hope Tour’ for Southlanders to attend”.
Firefighters have historically been portrayed as big and strong, but the truth is everyone needs to take care of their mental health just as we do our physical health.
Mr Lindsay said “It’s okay not to be okay, but it’s not okay to ignore it. We actively encourage our people to reach out and access a range of support services we have available for them and their families”.
“Working with ‘I am Hope Tour’ is a great initiative and we look forward to sharing the event with the public to encourage people to reach out and access help when they need it” he said.
Southland’s Future Directions Mental Health and Addiction Network will attend the event, providing advice and support on the night.
When: Monday 25th November 7pm-9pm
Where: Invercargill Working Men’s Club (154 Esk St, Invercargill)
Free admission
https://whatsoninvers.nz/events/mike-king-i-am-hope-tour/