As the Sydney Swans prepare for their first clash of the year against the Brisbane Lions in Coffs Harbour this week, the team is encouraging locals to consider improving their mental health with help from a NewAccess coach.
NewAccess is a ground-breaking FREE beyondblue program, funded by donations from the Movember Foundation, that helps people tackle the early signs and symptoms of depression or anxiety through free and practical support.
The program involves specially-trained coaches who help people create a plan to address personal issues in order to improve their mental health. The NewAccess coaches support clients to address their issues and get their life back on track through six coaching sessions, either face-to-face or by phone.
Anyone living in North Coast NSW can refer themselves to the program, by booking an initial appointment with a coach on 1300 127 934, or they can be referred to NewAccess by a GP.
The Swans, who have partnered with beyondblue since 2013 to raise awareness of depression and anxiety, will take on the Lions in a pre-season game at C.ex Coffs International Stadium at 7PM on Friday March 6.
Swans player and beyondblue Ambassador for the team, Dane Rampe said the game will put the Swans’ off-season training and coaching to the test, and show how coaching can help people perform at their best.
“We’re excited to be playing in Coffs Harbour this weekend, putting our hard work and training into practice.
“We would also like to use this visit to let North Coast residents know that just as we have benefited from the expert guidance of our footy coaches in our training, their mental health can benefit from the support of a NewAccess coach.”
North Coast NSW residents are among the first in Australia to benefit from a NewAccess demonstration trial, which was launched in the area in February 2014. A total of more than 520 people have had coaching at one of the four North Coast sites, in Coffs Harbour, Lismore, Port Macquarie and Tweed Heads.
beyondblue CEO Georgie Harman said the Swans’ highlighting that everyone needs a tune up every now and then helps to break down stigma and encourage people to seek support early.
“Whether a person is training to be the best in their sport like the Swans or seeking to improve their lives, the support of a coach can be invaluable,” she said.
“Because NewAccess is a free program and people can refer themselves to it, or be referred by a GP, it means people with the early signs of depression or anxiety can get support easily and quickly.
“Anyone who lives in the North Coast can pick up the phone and book an appointment with a Coach, who will help them develop strategies to tackle their mild depression or anxiety.”
To learn more about NewAccess in North Coast NSW or to refer yourself, call 1300 137 934 or visit www.beyondblue.org.au/newaccess
