Bee Well Project
What is the Bee Well project?
The project hopes to improve the resilience and mental health of rural young people. The Bee Well project draws on the best-available evidence in the field of eco-therapy for mental health resilience in the era of climate change to develop an innovative new intervention for people living in rural areas who are feeling distressed about climate change, and/or impacted by a natural disaster.
Why do we need this project?
As climate change worsens, natural disasters in Australia are becoming more intense, frequent, and severe. These hazards have been shown to negatively impact mental health, particularly of young people. Young people living in rural areas are more likely to experience the effects of climate change than their peers in urban areas and, unfortunately, mental health services are less accessible in rural areas.
In addition, young people are increasingly observed to experience “eco-anxiety” – this is concern at distress at observing the changes happening due to climate change. Eco-anxiety has also been shown to impact mental health and wellbeing. Currently, there are not many services or supports available for eco-anxiety.
Who is it for? Who can take part?
Anyone aged 15-18 in rural NSW, especially who have been affected by natural disasters, such as fire, drought, or flooding are able to take part in the Bee Well project. If you are interested in taking part, or know someone who is, please contact the project team: jrobin20@une.edu.au
When and where will it be happening?
The project will take place in Mar/Apr 2024. The project is a 1-day workshop, but taking part will also involve answering some questions via phone and online a few weeks before and after the workshop. Sign up by clicking here
What will the project include?
The Bee Well workshop will involve things like nature walks, participating in a restoration project, and discussions about coping strategies, resilience, and managing eco-anxiety. Importantly, participants will meet other young people who are also experiencing climate distress and will receive group support. Catering will be provided.
How is this project funded?
This project has been funded by a Peregrine Centre Rural Mental Health Small Project Grant
Who is the project team?
Ms Rosie Ryan
Ms Joanne Robinson
Who do I contact for more information?
Please get in touch with the project team via jrobin20@une.edu.au or scosh@une.edu.au
