Squash Australia forms Community Partnership with Black Dog Institute
Published Fri 29 Sep 2023
Ahead of Mental Health Month in October, Squash Australia is pleased join with Black Dog Institute as a Community Partner.
With mental health such an important facet of life for everyone in the community, Squash Australia is keen to drive awareness within the community, and also assist to raise funds for the cause.
One in every five people will experience mental illness in any given year and around 60 percent of those will not seek help, with Black Dog Institute working towards a vision of a mentally healthier world.
“A number of our leading players are passionate about mental health and are right behind this partnership, keen to keep the conversation going at all levels, from squash clubs right through to those involved in the elite level of the sport,” said Lauren Soderberg, Squash Australia Athlete Wellbeing & Engagement Manager.
“It’s pleasing that Squash Australia has formed this Community Partnership with Black Dog Institute and we look forward to helping them achieve their vision within the squash community.”
Throughout the month of October, Black Dog Institute is asking Australians to put ‘One Foot Forward’ for mental health. By logging your kilometres throughout Mental Health Month, you can help raise funds to help those impacted by mental illness.
Click here to sign up to the Squash Australia team or to simply make a donation.
Australia’s top-ranked men’s player Joseph White is an ambassador for Black Dog Institute and is encouraging everyone in the squash community to get on-board.
“No area of society is immune from mental health issues and it would be naive to think people within the squash community are not impacted,” he said. “It’s important to not just start the conversation but keep the conversation going and ensure people who are dealing with issues feel safe to seek help.
“Playing on the PSA tour is incredibly rewarding but can be very isolating when you are so far from home. Mental wellbeing all starts with acknowledging our circumstances and reaching out for help when we need it. By taking small actions in our daily life I have seen the positive impact these steps can have on mental health,
“Having delivered programs for Black Dog Institute in sports clubs and schools across Australia, I’ve also seen the incredible impact we can have as a community by raising awareness of mental health and being there for those who need it.
“I’m really proud that Black Dog Institute is now a Community Partner of Squash Australia and I’m looking forward to help those involved in our great game to engage with such a wonderful cause.”
Head of Fundraising at the Black Dog Institute, Evan Jackson, said the challenge is to walk, run, or roll 40km, 60km, 100km, 150km, or a distance that suits you in the month of October to show people experiencing symptoms of mental illness that they are not alone and to help raise funds for crucial mental health research and support services here in Australia.
“One Foot Forward can be a great way to take a positive step forward for your own mental
health and show Australians impacted by mental illness that they’re not alone,” he said. “You can take part solo, with a team or with your colleagues.
“This national virtual event is a great team building exercise for colleagues, can increase staff morale and help promote mental wellbeing in the workplace.”
