‘Just A Farmer’ event takes the taboo out of mental illness

The scenes and themes hit close to home, in a film that did not shy away from alcohol abuse, mental illness or the after-shocks of suicide in a farming community. 

The community event was organised by Grampians Health Edenhope, with support from suicide prevention group Lifeforce Edenhope. 

‘Be Your Best Counselling’ director Carine Bezuidenhout gave a presentation at the close of the film, detailing the many in-person and online resources available to anyone struggling with their mental health. 

Mrs Bezuidenhout drew on comparisons between physical and mental health, telling the audience mood and thought disturbances often presented and could be treated in the same way a virus or cold would. 

She urged the community to speak openly about difficult periods, as a means of reducing stigma and building connections. 

Edenhope farmer and father-of-four, Scott Altmann, said the film made him consider the effects of suicide more fully. 

“It was upsetting to see the impact it has on all your family and those little things, like how your dog won’t work for your wife and your children,” he said. 

“It was great to see support from our mature-aged community at the event.” 

Attendees each donated $10 to Lifeforce Edenhope, which works to reduce stigma, start conversations and develop strategies for suicide prevention. 

Grampians Health Edenhope community health nurse, Cath McDonald, said the benefits of events that address taboo topics often remained invisible. 

“It can be uncomfortable watching such heavy content with people sitting next to you, but it also creates a space of vulnerability and connection,” she said. 

“It was wonderful to have a qualified counsellor in Carine, to debrief and build on some of the messaging in the film. 

“No one walked away without feeling moved and motivated to try and prevent this kind of story, in any way possible, in the real world.” 

If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact Lifeline: 13 11 14. 

Grampians Health’s Rural Outreach program is a free non-clinical service. To book an appointment, phone 1300 688 732. 

For a qualified counsellor, contact ‘Be Your Best Counselling’: 0427 897 485. 

To make an appointment with Grampians Health social worker June Spencer, contact the Health and Wellbeing HUB: 5585 9830.