‘Sticky Topics’ don’t have to be tricky

As part of the initiative, eye-catching stickers will be placed on footpaths, walkways, and gathering places across the Edward River Council area.

Each sticker features a QR code linking directly to helpful information, local resources, and practical ways to support mental health and wellbeing.

Deni MHAG president Lourene Liebenberg said it is designed to reduce stigma and, importantly, support more open and honest discussions about help-seeking.

“The heart of the campaign is that we believe together, as a whole community, we can make a difference by looking out for each other, knowing how to support someone and where to find help,” she said.

“This helps build a stronger, healthier community.”

The ‘Sticky Topics’ campaign brings together five key Deni MHAG campaigns that encourage everyday actions supporting mental wellbeing and suicide prevention.

These include promoting the message that support is available ‘Anywhere, Anytime’, and that people don’t need to wait until they are in crisis to reach out for help.

It reinforces that tough times don’t have to be carried alone and that by ‘Sharing The Load’, talking things through can help lighten the load. It also encourages people to look out for their mates.

The sticker campaign also has a focus on suicide prevention and encourages people to recognise when someone may be struggling, understand what to say and do, and take small steps that can have a big impact in keeping each other safe.

And it supports honest and brave conversations by reminding people they don’t have to pretend everything is fine when it’s not, and that it is okay to say “I need help”.

It also covers the 5 Ways to Wellbeing campaign, promoting simple, everyday actions such as staying active, connecting with others, and showing kindness as ways to strengthen wellbeing across the community.

“Sometimes the hardest step is simply starting a conversation,” Mrs Liebenberg said.

“This campaign is about making mental health visible in everyday places and reminding people that support is always around us.

“Small actions - checking in with a mate, sharing helpful information, or simply listening - can make a real difference.”

Community members are encouraged to scan the QR codes on the stickers to learn more about mental health, discover practical support options, and find ways to help themselves or someone they care about.

“This initiative is supported by funding from Firsthealth Limited and Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network Community Grants through the Australian Government’s PHN Program,” Mrs Liebenberg said.

“The campaign is also supported by Edward River Council, the Deniliquin Pastoral Times, and Edge FM/2QN.

For support, visit www.denimentalhealth.org.au/helplines.

• Anyone requiring crisis support can contact Accessline on 1800 800 944, Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. Resources and pathways to help are also available at www.denimentalhealth.org.au.