The program, run by Stephen Toon from the Country Health SA Drought Response team in partnership with Eastern Eyre Health and Aged Care, aims to build support networks for country men.

“Men have always had their own ways of responding to difficult events and experiences, and their own style of dealing with their emotions,” Stephen said.

“They are also generally capable of supporting each other.

“The idea of ‘taking care of your mates’ didn’t originate in a pub, nor was it a ploy to get out of responsibilities at home. It was originally essential to survival.

A group of key men from the Cowell area last week came together to learn skills to “look out for” and support other men.

The program is a ‘Men Only’ program and topics include working with men, powerlessness, men and grief, men and separation, basic helping skills, helping men take care of their mental health, and helping men access the services and assistance they most need.

“Our forebears couldn’t have imagined – nor did they face - many of the modern pressures and challenges we do now,” Stephen said.

“If we are going to be able to look out for each other, we need the updated knowledge and skills to do so.”

The program is being run in Kimba and Cleve in coming weeks.

For further information please contact Donnamarie Walker on 8628 2665 or 0427 802 905.