Mental health challenges and wellbeing programs will be explored at the HRF’s special function, between 7am and 9am, at the Muswellbrook RSL Club on Wednesday, March 14.

Mrs Carrigan, who launched WTAW with husband Hilton two years ago, is joining HRF Centre lead economist Dr Anthea Bill, Family Action Centre director Professor Alan Hayes and MATES in Mining CEO Andrew McMahon as the event’s guest speakers.

Any decline in job security and rises in unemployment can have a negative impact on the sense of wellbeing among the region’s residents. 

Lower levels of wellbeing were found among Upper Hunter residents compared to Hunter locals, according to research by the HRF Centre. 

That suggests that those in the Upper Hunter are more likely to be experiencing stress, depression, or mental illness. 

Between 20 and 30 per cent of the workforce are estimated to suffer from a serious mental health problem at some point during their working life. 

A total of 15,000 workers annually commit suicide or engage in non-fatal suicide behaviours in Australia, according to research by Central Queensland University. 

Suicide is a major cause of death among Australians of working age. 

Mine workers, small business owners, and farmers during extended drought are especially susceptible to mental health stressors. 

And, these health and wellbeing issues will be discussed by the expert panel at the HRF Centre’s coming Upper Hunter economic breakfast.