Following the success of last year’s inaugural event, Beyond Blue is encouraging people to gather around the Big Blue Table again in 2023. Big Blue Table fundraising events will take place throughout October – Mental Health Month – to fight the stigma surrounding mental health, one meal at a time.
Local resident Cherie Banks will be hosting a Big Blue Table free morning tea on 14th October at Orana House 32 Ferguson St, Canowindra from 10am – 2pm. Head along and help raise much needed funds for Beyond Blue.
Everyone in Australia is encouraged to share a meal and start a conversation about mental health to support those impacted by anxiety, depression and suicide. Organising a lunch with co-workers, a group picnic in the park or inviting friends for dinner and creating a safe space where people can express how they truly feel can be life changing.
Beyond Blue Lead Clinical Adviser, Dr Grant Blashki, said the simple act of hosting a meal can make talking about mental health with family, friends and colleagues less uncomfortable.
All money raised through the Big Blue Table campaign goes to the Beyond Blue Support Service, providing free 24/7 counselling, advice and referrals for those in need via phone, web chat and email. More than 600 people use the service every day.
Big Blue Table events can take place for any meal, including brunch or afternoon tea, and in any setting such as at home, the workplace or local sporting club.
To find out more about the initiative and register to host your Big Blue Table event, visit bigbluetable.com.au.