Club Welfare Support
Mental health is something in life that doesn’t discriminate, and it can often go unnoticed at football clubs.
As a club, we want to do more to help those in our football family who are struggling. As such, we are extremely proud of our relationship with Crossroads Counselling. Crossroads Counselling Practice provides professional and compassionate counselling services to adults, children, teens, families and couples who come with a broad range of concerns.
How do I make contact with Crossroads Counselling?
If you feel that you need to speak to someone about your mental health or wellbeing, please reach out to Crossroads Counselling on 02 8005 4948. When speaking to them, confirm your membership of the Pennant Hills Demons Australian Football Club.
How much will it cost?
If you choose to engage with Crossroads Counselling for a professional counselling session, your first visit to the practice would be free of charge (Cost of the session is covered by the Club). Strict confidentiality applies, and the Club would not be provided any details relating to your session.
Crossroads Counselling are qualified counsellors and mental health workers available for CONFIDENTIAL sessions regarding any issues or concerns regarding a Club member, including players, coaches, volunteers, or admin.
The Pennant Hills Demons AFL Club will pay for the first session.
Remember, it is OK to seek help or advice.
Call on (02) 8005 4948 or email: enquiries@crossroadscounsellingpractice.com.au
www.crossroadscounsellingpractice.com.au
LOOK out for the signs
Sometimes it can be hard to know if someone is going through a rough patch or whether there might be something more serious going on, like anxiety or depression. You might notice that they are not hanging out with friends, aren’t present at training, or are always tired and feeling down. They might be snappier, or perhaps look tired or a mess. When you notice these changes, check in with your friends to see if they’re OK.
LISTEN to your friend’s experiences
Sitting and quietly listening is the next step. Don’t rush to offer advice. Let them know you are there for them and that you want to help where you can. If they don’t want to talk about it, respect that. Let them know you are worried and that you are happy to listen when they want to talk or suggest other people. By listening and responding in a non-judgmental and reassuring manner, you are helping in a major way.
TALK about what’s going on
Knowing what to say can sometimes be difficult. You might not be sure how to start a conversation with them, or you might be worried about saying the wrong thing. You could say things like “I’ve noticed that you seem a bit down lately”, or perhaps, “You seem like you are really down, and not yourself, I really want to help you. Is there anything I can do?” Showing that you are willing to listen to what is going on can be really supportive of the other person. You don’t need to have all the answers.
SEEK help together
Encourage them to get some support. They might want to start by talking with their family about has been going on or they may prefer to talk with someone that they do not know, like a doctor or health professional. You could help them to find and arrange an appointment with a health professional; you might even offer to go with them to their first appointment to help them feel more relaxed about it. If they don’t feel comfortable with the first health professional, then you could help them find another.
The above information has been adapted from www.youthbeyondblue.com.au.
Some useful reading on Stress, Anxiety, and Depression
Resources from the AFL (How-to guides)
