A new group has launched in Deer Park, offering support and serenity for people experiencing anxiety.
The Deer Park Anxiety Support Group is run at the commUnity+ Neighbourhood House on Ballarat Road, on the second Wednesday of each month from 6pm to 7.30pm.
Co-facilitator Tim Hillier said he had seen similar groups succeed across other parts of Melbourne, and was excited to see the benefits it could bring to residents within Brimbank.
“We want to provide a safe, non judgemental space where people can come and chat,” he said.
“An opportunity to come and share with people that can understand and relate to their experiences.”
The sessions begin with a check-in activity, delivered in a calm manner, allowing participants to identify their expressions through imagery or words, as well as introductions for new and ongoing members to become familiar with each other.
They complete breathing and meditation exercises towards the end of the sessions to ensure everyone is leaving feel relaxed.
The Deer Park group is only two sessions old after it began in August, but Mr Hillier said they are already having a positive impact.
“People have said how much they’ve enjoyed having somewhere just to come and have someone to relate to, because sometimes your family and the people at your workplaces don’t really talk about this topic much or may not understand it,” he said.
“We are still just getting started but it’s been really positive so far.”
The next session will be Wednesday, October 9, with all locals encouraged to sign up and attend.
Register: arcvic.org.au/events/deer-park-anxiety-support-group-3/
Gerald Lynch
