Tackling the Stigma
Emma Douglas, a former tennis champion, has traded her racket for a microphone in a bid to raise awareness about mental health in regional Australia.
Reaching Out to the Outback
Douglas, who has struggled with depression and anxiety in the past, is using her platform as the face of the Black Dog Institute to connect with people in the outback. She believes that the stigma surrounding mental health is particularly strong in rural communities.
In the outback, it’s not uncommon for people to suffer in silence, Douglas says. There’s a lot of shame and embarrassment around mental health issues, and it can be difficult to reach out for help.
From Wimbledon to the West
Douglas’ journey from Wimbledon to the outback began after she retired from professional tennis in 2017. She had always been passionate about mental health, and she wanted to find a way to make a difference.
I’ve been very open about my own struggles with mental health, Douglas says. I want to show people that it’s okay to talk about these things and that there is help available.
A Community Approach
Douglas’ work in the outback focuses on building community resilience and reducing the stigma around mental health. She runs workshops, gives presentations, and hosts community events aimed at raising awareness and encouraging people to seek help.
Making a Difference
Douglas’ work is making a real difference in the outback. She has helped to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, increased awareness about available services, and connected people with the support they need.
It’s not always easy, but it’s so important, Douglas says. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s something that we need to talk about more openly.
Kind regards
E. Thompson.
