CONNECTION MATTERS Building Stronger Minds And Stronger Communities

Contributed with thanks by the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre

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When we think about looking after our mental health, we often think about what to do when things go wrong. But supporting our mental wellbeing is also about the things we do every day that help us feel connected, valued and part of something bigger than ourselves.

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With Mental Health Month approaching in October, September is a good time to think about the important role that connection, belonging and community can play in our wellbeing.

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Life can become isolating for many reasons. Retirement, the loss of a partner or friend, changes in health or mobility, moving to a new community, financial pressures or simply the busyness of everyday life can gradually reduce our opportunities to connect with others.

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And loneliness isn't always obvious. A person can be surrounded by people and still feel disconnected.

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Regular social connection gives us opportunities to talk, laugh, share experiences, try something new and feel that we belong. It doesn't have to mean having a huge social circle or a packed calendar. Sometimes it's simply having somewhere to go each week where people know your name and are happy to see you.

At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre (HCSC), creating opportunities for people to connect and participate is an important part of what we do. Throughout the week, a range of regular groups and activities provide welcoming spaces for people to meet others, discover new interests, get active and stay connected within our community.

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HCSC also wants our community programs to reflect the interests and needs of the people who live here, and we'd love to hear from you.

We're inviting community members to complete a short survey and tell us what types of groups, activities and opportunities you'd like to see, and you don't need to currently attend an HCSC program to have your say.

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Your feedback helps us understand what our community wants and guide future programs.

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You don't necessarily need to know anyone before you come along to one of our programs. In fact, that's often the whole point. Taking that first step into a new group can sometimes feel uncomfortable, particularly if you've been feeling isolated or haven't participated in community activities for a while. But one new connection can lead to another, and over time those small interactions can become an important part of your support network.

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Connection is important across every stage of life. Feeling that we belong, having people to talk to and having somewhere we feel welcome can contribute to our sense of purpose, resilience and overall wellbeing.

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As we approach Mental Health Month, perhaps it's worth asking ourselves not only “How am I feeling?” but also “How connected am I?”

Maybe it's time to call someone you haven't spoken to for a while. Invite someone for a coffee. Try a new activity. Or come through the doors at HCSC and see what's happening. Strong communities are built through connection, and sometimes it begins with something as simple as a shared interest or a quick conversation.

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At HCSC, there's a place for everyone to connect, participate and belong.

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Visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/C263X8M to complete our short community survey.

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PROGRAMS AT HCSC

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Mondays

Empowering Women XYZ — 9:30am–11:30am, 71 Townsville Road

Creative Corner – All Welcome — 2:00pm–3:30pm, 71 Townsville Road

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Tuesdays

Cafe Crawl – All Welcome — 9:00am–12:00pm, RSVP to the Hub

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Wednesdays

Canasta — 1:30pm–3:30pm, 71 Townsville Road

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Thursdays

Men's Group — 9:00am–12:00pm, RSVP to the Hub

Active Explorers — 9:00am–11:00am, Meet at TYTO, Macrossan Avenue carpark

Mahjong — 1:00pm–3:00pm, 71 Townsville Road

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Fridays

Seniors Morning Coffee Club — Every second Friday, RSVP to the Hub

Green Thumbs – All Welcome — 2:00pm–3:30pm, Community Garden, 100 McIlwraith Street

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