The last week has been disruptive, but Emma Davidson, ACT Minister for Mental Health and Community Recovery, encourages all Canberrans to stay kind, connected, and caring to strengthen community cohesion.
“A strong sense of community improves everyone’s health and wellbeing outcomes,” Ms Davidson said. “There are many things we can do on an individual level to support Canberra’s community resilience, connectedness, and kindness.
“The past two years have been incredibly tough for our community. We have faced bushfires, hailstorms, and a global pandemic, and have had to quickly adapt to new ways of doing things. Over the past week, there were several instances of antisocial and harmful behaviour which left many Canberrans feeling stressed, anxious, and frustrated.
“The right to protest is a foundational part of our democracy. As the nation’s capital, we expect protests to bring in a diversity of people, experiences, and opinions. At times, protests may be disruptive to our community and businesses. However, peaceful protest does not mean harassing people in our community or putting their safety at risk.
“Canberrans have been resilient in the face of new challenges, united as a community, and offered support to neighbours and peers in need. To strengthen our community cohesion, resilience, and kindness, Canberrans can do the following small acts:
Stay connected: Reach out to family, friends, colleagues, and neighbours. We all experience things differently, and it is important to check in with our loved ones, keeping us socially connected and offering support.
Reach out for support: Taking care of your personal mental health and wellbeing will mean you are more prepared to offer a helping hand to those you care about. Contact support organisations if you aren’t feeling well. A list of local providers is available at www.health.act.gov.au/helpisavailable.
Shop local: When you can, shop at local Canberra businesses, markets, and businesses. Celebrate the diversity of goods and services on offer across the ACT. Thanking staff supports their mental wellbeing in the workplace.
Join an interest group, sporting organisation, or community club: The diversity of community clubs and groups means more Canberrans can grow their support network, feel connected, and look after their physical and mental wellbeing.
Volunteer: Canberrans have constantly stepped up to support their neighbours and keep our environment beautiful. If you want to help people, offer your spare time, items, or skills, and keep our community connected and healthy.
Contribute to your local community pantry: Donating food or personal care items to local pantries means more Canberrans experiencing hardship can overcome some barriers, and are better placed to participate in the community.”
Interest groups, community clubs, sport organisations, and community pantries can be found online at: www.mycommunitydirectory.com.au/Australian_Capital_Territory/Canberra.
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