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As part of a recent Work & Study community initiative, Maddy (headspace Grafton work and Study Specialist) and Jen (headspace Grafton Clinical Lead) had the opportunity to engage with multiple netball teams at the Grafton Netball Association, delivering valuable mental health education alongside practical support for the local sporting community.
The presentation began with an overview of headspace Grafton and the range of free and confidential services available to young people. Maddy and Jen provided insight into how headspace supports mental health, wellbeing, and personal development, helping players and their families better understand where to turn if support is ever needed. They also explained the different referral pathways to headspace, highlighting how young people can access services through self-referral, a GP, or with the support of trusted adults. This helped break down common barriers and encouraged early help-seeking.
At the request of the netball club, Jen delivered a focused session on mindset under pressure, exploring how athletes can stay calm, confident, and focused in high-pressure situations on the court. She also spoke about managing stress and anxiety, sharing practical tools that players can apply in sport and everyday life. These included recognising signs of stress, using simple grounding and breathing techniques, building positive self-talk, and reaching out for support when needed. The session emphasised the strong link between mental wellbeing and performance, equipping players with strategies to support both.
In addition to delivering education, the Work & Study team supported the Grafton Netball Association through community service. Raffle supplies were provided to assist the association in raising funds, with an exciting prize of a pair of Apple AirPods up for grabs. Once the raffle is drawn, the Work & Study team will return to present the prize to the lucky winner.
This visit marks the beginning of an ongoing relationship between headspace Grafton and the Grafton Netball Association. Plans are already in place for the team to return later in the year, bringing headspace-branded merchandise and continuing to support the wellbeing of local young athletes.
Through this collaboration, the Work & Study team is helping to build stronger connections within the community, while promoting mental health awareness and resilience among young people both on and off the court.
headspace Grafton is delivered locally by Health Voyage and is part of the national headspace network. headspace Grafton is funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN Program.
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