Closer look at mental health battles

BALLARAT Community Health Services and On The Low Down are once again joining forces for an online mental health event SO WHAT NOW?, exploring the challenges faced during and coming out of COVID-19 lockdowns, especially for young men.

The panel includes former Ballarat Rebels and AFL premiership player Jordan Roughead, local psychologist Marcus Probert, and ex-AFL talent manager Phil Partington.

Mr Partington, who finished up in his talent operations role at the Greater Western Victoria Rebels earlier this year, said he’s seen first-hand the challenges for young people in Ballarat during the pandemic, in education, the workforce and sport.

“I think there’s still a challenge ahead of us because a lot of these young people in the community have been challenged during this COVID period and now we’re coming out there’s risk involved there too with seeing their friends and mates straight away, and alcohol and drugs and all those things,” he said.

Mr Partington said Jordan Roughead is a great advocate for mental health support.

“I know how much Jordan is a community person and he cares about the community, and no doubt he has his own story,” he said.

“Being an AFL footballer it’s not all bells and whistles either, you go through ups and downs so he’ll be a certain person that young people could associate with. He’s a great person and asset for the Ballarat community.”

Tune into the online webinar on Thursday, 25 November from 8pm to 9.30pm. Head to onthelowdown.com.au/online-events to register.