This month, five Beyond the Broncos Student Support Officers are putting one foot in front of the other for better mental health.
As part of the Black Dog Institute’s One Foot Forward challenge, they will join thousands of Australians walking, running and moving in solidarity with the one in five people who experience mental illness each year.
Starting the Conversation
Jorja Hart-Barnes was the first to share the challenge with her fellow Student Support Officers (SSO), seeing it as a chance to remind people they don’t have to carry difficult times on their own.
“I thought about how the whole purpose of the initiative is reminding people that they aren’t alone – that’s why I shared it with the SSOs in my region,” Jorja said.
“I think we need to do more as a community to make people feel comfortable talking about what they’re going through, rather than suffering in silence.
“I hope it shows people that talking about mental health doesn’t have to be uncomfortable or something to be ashamed of.”
Sometimes simply asking someone if they’re okay and actually being willing to listen can make a world of difference.
Jorja Hart-Barnes
“We’re often really good at looking after everyone else but we need to make sure we’re looking after ourselves too.”
Breaking the Silence Around Mental Health
For Shonnell Turner, the challenge is about raising awareness of struggles that are not always visible and encouraging more open conversations within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and among young people.
“I was inspired to take on the One Foot Forward Challenge because mental health is something very close to my heart,” Shonnell said.
“It wasn’t until I got older that I began to understand that not all illnesses are visible and that mental health challenges can affect anyone.
“Because of my personal experiences, I am passionate about raising awareness, particularly within our Indigenous communities and among our young people.
“For too long, many of our mob have carried their struggles quietly, often feeling shame, fear, or uncertainty about asking for help.”
I want people to know that mental health is nothing to be ashamed of – it doesn’t make you weak, and reaching out for support is one of the bravest things a person can do.
Shonnell Turner
“Our communities are strongest when we look after one another, and I want people to know they are never alone in what they’re going through.”
Caring for Mind and Body
For Madeline West, losing someone close to her reinforced the importance of caring for mental health with the same attention as physical health.
“Losing her had a lasting impact on my life and has made me realise just how important it is to look after ourselves, both physically and mentally,” Madeline said.
“Last month, I began a new fitness journey by joining the gym, not only to improve my physical health but also to make my mental wellbeing a priority.
“Getting involved in this cause has given my journey an even greater purpose, allowing me to honour her memory while making positive changes in my own life.”
As someone who works closely with young people, and as a mum of five, I want to be the best version of myself for my students and my family.
Madeline West
“I want to lead by example and show that prioritising our mental health is just as important as looking after our physical health.”
Turning Lived Experience into Action
Jordan McLellan has seen the difference movement can make to her own wellbeing and is taking on One Foot Forward to turn that experience into support for others.
“Over the years, I’ve learnt what helps me manage my wellbeing, and being active has become something that is engraved into my routine because I know how much it helps me mentally,” she said.
“I also know firsthand how important it is to have organisations and support available when you’re struggling.
“I’ve needed that support at different points in my own life, which is why organisations like the Black Dog Institute mean so much to me.”
For me, One Foot Forward is about turning my own experiences into something positive, raising awareness and hopefully helping others know they don’t have to struggle alone.
Jordan McLellan
Making Support Visible
For Rebecca Chain, taking part is about showing support for people who may be struggling, even when others can’t see it.
“I joined One Foot Forward to help raise awareness for mental health and show support for those who are struggling, whether people see it or not,” Rebecca said.
Mental health affects so many of us, and sometimes just knowing someone cares can make all the difference.
Rebecca Chain
Together, the team’s steps will help fund the Black Dog Institute’s mental health research, treatment, education and digital services, while sending a simple message to anyone who is struggling: you do not have to face it alone.
If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available.
Visit the Brisbane Broncos x Black Dog Institute Wellbeing Hub for more information and mental health resources.