Animal health company Zoetis has donated $100,000 to beyondblue, in an effort to support good mental health and reduce suicide rates throughout rural Australia.
Earlier this year, Zoetis became a supporting partner of beyondblue, and launched a campaign to raise awareness and funds for the organisation.
For every Zoetis cattle, sheep or goat vaccine or drench sold by Zoetis between August 1st and October 30th this year, the company donated $5, up to $100,000, to beyondblue.
The funds raised will go towards supporting beyondblue’s 24-hour support service.
beyondblue chairman Jeff Kennett said calls to the support service had increased by 50 per cent from the last financial year, so any funds that would support it would be incredibly beneficial.
“One of our most important services is the 24-hour support service, that anyone around the country can call at any time, day or night,” Mr Kennett said.
He said the rural community deserves access to mental health services just like everybody else.
“Our resources are designed to be accessed by anybody, anytime, anywhere in Australia, whether that be online, by phone, web chat, email, social media, or printed materials,” he said.
Mr Kennett said around 68,000 people living with anxiety and depression use their online forums every month.
“On the forums, people can talk freely, safely and anonymously about how they’re feeling, with posts monitored by the team or clinically-trained moderators and volunteers, who offer peer support.”
He said he’d like to thank Zoetis for their contribution in supporting mental health in rural Australia.
Zoetis general manager Lance Williams said the initiative was important, particularly given the number of deaths by suicide in rural communities.
“We understand the devastating effect suicide can have on rural communities given our staff travel more than two million kilometres each year servicing some of the most remote areas in Australia,” Mr Williams said.
“We would like to thank all of the producers, re-sellers, veterinarians, and the broader rural community, for supporting this valuable cause, your generosity has helped us raise much needed funds for beyondblue, and we are proud to have partnered with the community to support mental health in rural Australia.”
He said although the $100,000 target had been reached, the campaign wouldn’t stop there.
“We encourage our staff and the wider community to continue to raise awareness of depression, anxiety and suicide prevention, and help to reduce the associated stigma,” he said.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing mental health issues, visit the beyondblue website, or call them on 1300 224 636.
