It’s hard to believe we’re now in August 2021, particularly as the ongoing uncertainty and public health responses can begin to feel like Groundhog Day. As such, it makes sense that many of us are feeling tired, or feeling like we’re running on empty.
Tempting as it is to try and ‘push through’, we know that this is unsustainable, and will ultimately lead to burnout. Take time to rest, and attend to your own needs – when we are rested and able to support our own needs and each other, we can look up and ahead at the future we’re creating together. Remember what we’re striving for, the enduring power of the work we do, the impact we have on the communities we serve, and the miracle of our continued momentum and connection in the face of all this.
As we move through and beyond the necessary public health responses, remember that support is available for you, and revisit the simple strategies – sleep well, eat well, move, connect with others, do things that you enjoy, and seek help early and seek help often. If you need a lift, take a few minutes to experience Power Up!, a vibrant and hopeful film that reminds us of the joys of performance, storytelling, and connection.
If you’re looking for some good news stories, the third edition of Spotlight: The Arts Wellbeing Collective magazine is now live! Thank you to the more than 50 performing arts workers who contributed to this wonderful edition, we are honoured to showcase the incredible work happening across our sector.
Articles include:
- Support Act Wellbeing Helpline: First Nations Dedicated Support Helpline
- The love in the squares: creating Power Up!
- Our hybrid (accessible) future
- True grit in the arts: resilience can be found where passion meets boundaries
And, we welcome the latest additions from our friends at Melbourne Theatre Company to The Pet Collective, a page well worth bookmarking!
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Mental Health Matinée: Back after interval. If you missed this session or any others, you can catch up online. We hope you can join us for the next Mental Health Matinée: Food and mood with Fumi Somehara on Monday, 30 August at 1.30pm.
Wishing you good health, warmth, and creativity,
The team at Arts Centre Melbourne
Mental Health Matinée: Food and mood
Zoom webinar
Monday 30 August, 1.30pm to 2.30pm
Eating well is critical for healthful bodies, but what is perhaps less well known is that food can also influence your mood. This session explores the relationship between food and mood, and shares vital information regarding nutrition and eating, and ensuring your relationship with food is nourishing both the mind and body. Presented by Fumi Somehara, DDD Centre for Recovery.
Support
NewAccess for Small Business Owners
If you’re managing an independent theatre company, small to medium arts organisation, or are currently freelancing, Beyond Blue have developed a free mental health coaching program for small business owners. The program is designed to give small business owners the support they need to manage stress and get back to feeling like themselves. At your first appointment your coach will complete an initial assessment with you, and develop a program tailored to your individual needs.
Support Act Wellbeing Helpline
The Helpline is a 24/7, free, confidential phone counselling service available Australia-wide to anyone who usually works in the creative industries. You can make an appointment, or request to speak with an experienced, qualified clinician immediately about any aspect of your mental health and wellbeing. There is also dedicated First Nations support and dedicated support for arts managers and leaders available. It’s never too early to seek help, and no problem or concern is too small. Call 1800 959 500, 24 hours a day, seven days a week to make an appointment. If you or someone you know is at immediate risk, please contact the Emergency Services on 000.
