The TIO NTFL is once again supporting clubs in tackling depression head on through the inclusion of a beyondblue round across all division and age groups of the TIO Northern Territory Football League this weekend.
Round eight of the TIO NTFL is beyondblue round, aiming to raise awareness of depression and anxiety, particularly in young people through the Look. Listen. Talk. Seek Help campaign.
AFLNT CEO Tony Frawley is a strong advocate of the AFLNT and beyondblue partnership which spans five years.
“I’ve been told this week almost 50% of Australians are living with or are directly affected by the impacts of mental illnesses which is a staggering figure,” Frawley said.
“We encourage our football community to look out for not only themselves, but their team mates, friends, supporters and families as we head into this important round.
“It’s incredible and extremely moving to see the clubs coming to us wanting to be more active during beyondblue round, it shows how important this cause is to our playing group and wider community.” Frawley said.
Teams playing this weekend have committed to wearing blue armbands to show their support of beyondblue and to raise awareness of depression and anxiety, and suicide prevention.
Wanderers Football Club has led the charge, calling for the blue awareness raising armbands to be worn across more grades of the game.
Wanderers team manager Kristy Hayes believe depression and anxiety are conditions that people need to be aware of and believe everyone needs to play their part after losing a club member earlier this year.
“We’ve all been touched by depression, we lost a friend and club member earlier this year so this round is particularly important to us,” Hayes said.
“On Saturday before our Premier League game against Saints, we’ll release blue balloons in honour of our friend and teammate and in support of beyondblue.
“We are also hosting a Hidden Talent Night at the club with all funds raised going to beyondblue.
“We are out in full force this weekend to support the cause and raise awareness.”
To talk to a counsellor 24/7, contact the beyondblue Support Service 1300 22 4636, web chat (3pm – midnight) or email via
www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support or www.youthbeyondblue.com.
For further comment please call Hannah West on 0437 756 238.