As COVID-19 restrictions ease across Australia, many of us are beginning a gradual return to work in the performing arts industry.
We also recognise that much of our creative community remain without their usual prospects, while others are working overtime to reopen.
Looking after our mental health as we return to creative work and workplaces is critical, and we have developed two resources to assist – Back after interval: tips and techniques for practitioners and performing arts workers and Back after interval: tips and techniques for leaders, managers and organisations. Thank you to everyone who helped us build these resources, your support, input, expertise and insights are greatly appreciated.
If you missed the latest Mental Health Matinee, the video is now live! Mental Health Matinee: On the road again explores how you can take steps to care for your mental health – and the mental health of your colleagues – through this unique time.
You can catch up on all Mental Health Matinees online now. These 60-minute webinars cover a wide range of topics, delivered by subject matter experts including Chris Cheers, Coco Nkrumah, Glenda Chi, Jossy Jimenez, Jamie Marloo Thomas, Deone Zanotto and many more.
We are also excited to share that the Arts Wellbeing Collective COVID-19 Crisis Appeal was recently recognised at the 2021 Fundraising Institute Australia Awards for Excellence. The Arts Wellbeing Collective COVID-19 Crisis Appeal received the Principal Award – Most Outstanding Fundraising Project and was a joint winner for Best Pivot or Initiative Award. Our sincere thanks goes out to everyone involved in the campaign, and to everyone who so generously supported the appeal.
The final report for the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental Health System is now available. The Arts Wellbeing Collective has been included as a case study for supporting mentally healthy workplaces. We are buoyed by the recommendations in the report, and the way in which they will continue to galvanise positive change.
Wishing you good health and creativity,
The team at Arts Centre Melbourne
Back after interval: tips and techniques for practitioners and performing arts workers
Whether we’re working, training, rehearsing, presenting or touring, we’re likely doing so after a prolonged period away. As we navigate this return to our creative practice and work roles within a new context, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions. This will be a process of change that will be experienced differently by each of us.
Back after interval: tips and techniques for leaders, managers and organisations
Effectively preparing our teams, companies and organisations as we return to work and to work-sites is critical to promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. Fortunately, there are plenty of preventative, proactive steps to take to ensure our people are given every opportunity to do their best work as we rebuild and recover the performing arts industry.
Mental Health Matinee: On the road again
Video now online
Going on tour is great fun, and one of the cornerstones of our thriving performing arts sector. But, what are the mental health impacts we should consider as we continue to navigate living, working and touring with the impact of COVID-19 Presented by Dr Jane Miskovic-Wheatley, Sage Psychology.
Support Act Wellbeing Helpline
It can be tricky navigating the performing arts industry at the best of times – navigating in a COVID-normal world can be even trickier! It is never too early to ask for help, support, strategies or suggestions for looking after your mental health and wellbeing.
Book in a session with an experienced, qualified clinician who understands the unique challenges of the performing arts. Call 1800 959 500, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to make an appointment.
If you or someone you know is at immediate risk, please contact the Emergency Services on 000.
