You can't keep a good man down

QUITE often travellers simply pass through Western Queensland’s smaller towns - some home to less than a handful of people – on their way to a bigger pond on the map.

Many don’t contemplate the future of the inhabitants, and most never consider the weight of the civic responsibility and cohesion asked of these same individuals for the sake of their town’s survival.

I was once one of those travellers, paying little more than a fleeting glance at these quaint and quirky places.

However I had the good fortune to broaden my horizons by taking in some of our Outback country alongside the Royal Flying Doctor Service’s Social and Emotional Well Being program team leader Stuart Hart.

On a day trip to Yaraka, my understanding of rural life was altered – and a new understanding and respect for the resilience of rural people emerged.

"Basically this community just pulls together, time after time, for whatever reason," Stuart commented on Yaraka’s current transformation.

The railway line which once brought in the town’s food and freight supply is being ripped from the ground, sleeper by sleeper, after a move by Queensland Rail last year to close the Yaraka-Jericho track.

People who once considered this line as their lifeline to the ‘outside world’ are now involved in its dismantling.

A strange feeling of contradiction floats through the Yaraka streets. On one hand the small community is experiencing a boom with visiting contractors and newly employed locals filing into the pub at night, and on the other a sense of anticipation: What will happen to Yaraka once the work is done?

Some believe the road being laid in conjunction with the railway removal will maintain Yaraka’s population (most say they don’t dare hope it would increase – just plateau).

Many workers involved on the line are property owners, supplementing their income with town work.

It’s a balancing act, but due to the relentless drought conditions it is something which just needs to be done – and all are thankful for the work.

But stories of emotional and physical tiredness feature heavily in Stuart’s day, relayed from concerned family members and friends, in towns across the West just like Yaraka.

"We are constantly hearing how families are being impacted by the drought," Stuart said.

"This drought has such powerful emotional and social impacts.
"It has this sameness about it – and it’s this sameness that has a psychological effect on people.
"It makes them feel nullified."

Stuart shared a story about a bloke who just could not face the nightly weather forecast, and was forced to turn off the telly by fierce emotions he couldn’t control.

That’s where Stuart – an ex-nurse - and his team of four from the RFDS step in.

The onset of many mental illnesses, such as depression, can be prevented if the symptoms of distress are acted upon in time. Stuart’s team aim to help those affected by mental turmoil before it becomes a crisis.

To do so, Stuart regularly travels around Western Queensland meeting with people keen for a chat.

"Basically we are just yarning with people.

"People tell us their story, conveying their feelings without any clinical framework.
"Our main concern with the person is why they got to the stage of where they are now – what has happened to bring them to this stage.
"A reflective chat often enables people to better self-evaluate their situation too."

Stepping into his ‘office’ – the park bench behind the Yaraka clinic – Stuart reiterates the casual nature of his role.

Creating a comfortable environment, Stuart – a big gentle bloke with grey hair and wild beard that may hint at his wide life experience - is able to speak openly with his ‘clients’, who are at ease enough for me to sit in and listen to their conversation.

They tell Stuart about their day, their feelings, what they hope to see in the future.

Stuart sits back quietly reflecting on what is being said.

"What you don’t what to do is instil a false sense of security," Stuart said plainly.

"This is the way the world is; so, how can you make it work?
"Whether that is through simple things - diversional therapies, a relaxation CD - just ways to keep you mind occupied.
"I sometimes encourage people to participate in social events – things that make them happy or make them feel better."

Since the Wellbeing program’s inception in July 2004, over 500 referrals have been given to the RFDS from doctors, individuals, organisations and families.

Stuart sees the program’s success as bringing to the fore mental health issues which previously went unchecked.

"We take a softer approach to low-grade depression and anxiety – diminishing the chances of it becoming worse.

"We don’t focus a lot on medicines. We basically advocate good wellbeing.
"I don’t tell people what to do; I just give them the options so they can make an informed choice."

Beyond the challenges of distance and the natural stoicism of rural people, Stuart believes the biggest test for his team lies in providing a sustainable, continued service for Western Queenslanders without burning out.

Dealing with strong emotional issues and absorbing another’s grief can sometimes take its toll.
"But, you know, there is always a sunrise and a sunset," Stuart said.

"A lot of the stuff that we deal with is uncomfortable information, but you learn to deal with it.
"We certainly practice what we preach; we set boundaries, we can be fairly tough and we learn to respond in the appropriate ways.
"I think we have a great team at the RFDS – we all accept people as they are."

What about me? Do I need help?

ACCORDING to beyondblue – a national depression initiative - research indicates that depression rates are the same in both rural and metropolitan communities.
But suicide rates are much higher in rural areas, particularly amongst men.
This may be because country people are less aware of the symptoms and signs of mental illness, or are reluctant to ask for help. Sometimes people don’t know where to get help.
People in rural communities are a generally proud of their self-sufficiency and independence, which can make it hard to ask for a hand when things get tough.

Suggestions on the beyondblue website include:
• If asking for help seems to hard, make a pact with yourself to help others when your situation improves
• Remember that chronic stress isn’t an agricultural issue, it’s a health issue. Seek advice from local doctor or health professional
• Psychologists and psychiatrists aren’t just for mentally ill people, they can offer valuable advice on stress management for everyday life
• If you are experiencing hard times, chances are your neighbours are as well. Sharing your experiences can help.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service’s Social and Emotional Wellbeing program is aimed at tackling low-grade depression and anxiety before clinical intervention is required.
Referrals to see the program’s team leader Stuart Hart are not required.
Contact RFDS Longreach base on 4658 1928 to organise a time to chat.