Films focus on women’s wellbeing

WOMEN’S Health Loddon Mallee has released a five-part documentary series exploring the impacts of COVID-19 on seven people from across the region.

The short films were released during Women’s Health Week, held from 6 to 10 September, and each one aims to promote ways to achieving personal wellbeing.

WHLM CEO, Tricia Currie, said the series could benefit viewers and remind them to check in on their own mental health.

“We know that our mental health is just as important as our physical health. Yet, for many of us, particularly in times of stress, we can forget to focus in on ourselves and our communities and reflect on what we need to be well,” she said.

“Documentary is a powerful tool, and we know that real-life stories can have a tremendous impact for people.

“These snapshot films provide an insight into seven women’s lives and the daily wisdoms they follow to be able to cope through the pandemic.”

Those “daily wisdoms” relate to the five ways to wellbeing framework, with each documentary partly exploring how women connect, give, learn, be active and take notice.

Yorta Yorta and Wemba Wemba woman, Aunty Lyn Warren, featured in the final instalment of the series and described how she remains positive with hobbies like gardening, listening to music and painting.

Eighteen-year-old Amber Jepsen, who graduated high school at the top of her class last year, spoke of the importance of completing her education during the pandemic in the series’ fourth episode.

The documentary series was made in partnership with Bendigo Community Health Services and Northern District Community Health, and each episode is available to watch on the Women’s Health Loddon Mallee YouTube channel.