This year’s national theme is Together We Thrive, highlighting the importance of connection, belonging and community in supporting mental health and wellbeing. For timber and hardware businesses, it is an opportunity to bring that message into the workplace and recognise that looking after people is an important part of creating a safe and healthy business.
In busy stores, timber yards, warehouses and workshops, people can face demanding customers, staffing pressures, heavy workloads, workplace conflict and the everyday pressures of running a business.
Mental Health Month doesn’t require complicated programs. It can start with simple, practical steps:
- Make time for a regular team check-in.
- Encourage managers and supervisors to genuinely ask people how they are going.
- Create an environment where employees feel comfortable speaking up.
- Look at workplace pressures that may be affecting wellbeing.
- Include mental health and psychosocial risks in toolbox talks and safety discussions.
- Make sure employees know where they can access professional support.
Sometimes, a conversation, a check-in or simply making time to listen can make a difference.
NTHA Mental Health First Aid
NTHA’s Mental Health First Aid training gives employees the skills and confidence to recognise mental health concerns, provide initial support and connect colleagues with appropriate professional help.
The course includes:
- 5–7 hours of self-paced online learning
- Two 2.5-hour virtual classroom sessions
- Online assessment
- A three-year Mental Health First Aid certificate
- Face-to-face onsite training available on request.
The training covers recognising mental health concerns, having supportive conversations, reducing stigma and responding to mental health crises.
Cost: $350 per person for NTHA members and $400 for non-members, with a minimum of six participants.
For more information, contact Vicki on 0407 850 235 or vicki.s@ntha.com.au.
Check in. Listen. Connect.
Positive Duty is separate from mental health support, but both contribute to creating workplaces where people are treated respectfully, feel safe to speak up and know where to turn when they need help.
If someone needs professional support, Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14, while Beyond Blue can be contacted on 1300 22 4636.
This October, take the time to check in with your people and strengthen the connections that help your workplace thrive.