A focus on balance and self care for women in business during Mental Health Week

St John of God Richmond Hospital held its second event for the Hawkesbury Chamber of Commerce on Thursday 8 October, hosting 25 women in business for a high-tea style lunch. The meeting was held on the veranda of historic Belmont House, not your usual setting for a business lunch, but very appropriate as a focus on mental health for Mental Health Week 4-11 October.

15 Oct 2015

15 October 2015

Attendees were welcomed by Associate Professor Maya Drum, a passionate advocate for women’s and children’s health and the Manager, Raphael Centre in Blacktown which specialises in Postnatal health care and is an outreach service for St John of God Health Care. Professor Drum spoke about how Raphael Centre supports parents and families affected by anxiety, stress or depression during pregnancy and following childbirth.

She also shared a few practical strategies for self-care for busy women as well as sharing a few of her own personal tips.

The self-care message, the theme for this year’s Mental Health Week was a timely reminder for the group of busy working women who like everyone, strive to maintain work-life balance.
Chamber representative Debra Mavin said the opportunity to come out and spend time at Richmond Hospital for the meeting was one that helped double the usual attendance.

“We all live and work in the area and are curious about the work that the hospital does and appreciate being able to enjoy the beautiful grounds in a spring setting, learn more about the services provided by the hospital and to hear a timely reminder about the importance of maintaining care for ones physical and mental wellbeing”, she said.

St John of God Richmond Hospital CEO, Strephon Billinghurst, welcomed the opportunity to host the Chamber’s initiatives saying that it’s important to take a leading role in the community to educate, increase awareness and discussion about mental illness and where to seek support.