Earlier this month my cousin played in his band in a fundraiser for youth depression in the bush. I’d chosen beyondblue to be my next recipient last year before I knew his concert was going to happen. Then when I did I thought it was a nice coincidence. This week has seen some monumental damage caused by flooding in Queensland. Living in the area that was affected by the Black Saturday bushfires, I am still seeing the long-term repercussions from that event, people struggling to cope and carry on.
This is why in 2011 my profits pledge charity will be beyondblue: the national depression initiative and in some ways is the most personal choice I’ve made yet. I’ve not received any professional counselling for my mental health issues since I was referred for help in the dark months following Riley’s birth and, in retrospect, feel that perhaps I should have sought some in the months following dad’s death.
This week I’m thinking of everyone up in Queensland. I’m thinking of anyone who’s battling. This pledge isn’t much, I know. But it is heartfelt and sincere.
