MasterChef alum Julie Goodwin and internet sensation Nat's What I Reckon have partnered with Beyond Blue to encourage people to share a meal, start a conversation and break down stigma around mental health. The new initiative, Big Blue Table, takes place from 1 – 8 October, to kick off the first week of Mental Health Month and support those impacted by anxiety, depression, and suicide.
The two culinary connoisseurs are spreading the word about the campaign, which aims to raise funds for the Beyond Blue Support Service. The fundraising challenge was created as a direct response to the eighteen per cent increase in support service contacts that Beyond Blue registered in 2021.
Throughout the initiative, people are encouraged to host a meal and talk to friends and family about mental health. All money raised will go towards bolstering the Beyond Blue Support Service, a resource which offers free round-the-clock counselling via phone, webchat and email.
Celebrity food personality Julie Goodwin said highlights the importance of starting a conversation about mental health and sharing personal stories.
"People often underestimate the power one conversation can have. By talking openly about our thoughts, feelings and struggles, we can stop people from feeling so alone," said Goodwin.
"Forty-five per cent of people in Australia will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime, however, many don't seek support. A simple conversation over a home cooked meal can create lasting change."
Internet cook and comedian Nat's What I Reckon has joined the campaign to reduce stigma around seeking mental health support.
"There is still a lot of stigma around mental health, and sadly this can stop legends that are struggling from seeking support. I chose to get on board with the Big Blue Table initiative because it encourages people to talk openly about their mental health, and a good chat is always a solid move when you're having a tough time.
I want to play a part in reducing the stigma and encourage champions to look after themselves cause they're bloody worth it."
Events can take place around any meal, including brunch or afternoon tea, in any setting such as at home, the workplace or local sporting club.
Whether it is a lunch at the office, hosting a picnic in the park with some friends or inviting family over for a barbecue dinner, each Big Blue Table can lead to important conversations.
During the event, attendees use conversation starters, provided to the host when they register, which include fun 'getting to know you' themes as well as mental wellbeing topics.
Hosting a Big Blue Table event is easy – register online at bigbluetable.com.au, receive a free host kit, invite your guests, and fight the stigma in a relaxed environment, while raising much needed funds for the Beyond Blue Support Service.
Beyond Blue Lead Clinical Adviser Dr Grant Blashki said that "we know starting a discussion about mental health can be challenging, so we have created a free Host Kit, including conversation starters, to help encourage open dialogue."
"Every dollar raised from your Big Blue Table will go towards the Beyond Blue Support Service, so counsellors can provide immediate advice, support, and referrals 24/7 at no cost to users.
"Beyond Blue is always available if you're seeking support for your own mental health or supporting someone going through a tough time."
