Promoting Mental Health Awareness in the Bus and Coach Industry
August 2024 marks the first anniversary of Signal for Help, a key initiative aimed at raising mental health awareness in the bus and coach industry.
The program was developed a year ago by BusNSW and a working group of industry representatives, funded under the NSW Government’s “Recovery Boost” initiative.
BusNSW Executive Director, Matt Threlkeld said “There are approximately 30,000 bus industry workers in NSW and in recent years, operators have seen some employees leaving the industry. Retirements, health problems and challenges outside of work have contributed to this situation”.
“The Signal for Help program aims to address this problem by increasing awareness and reducing the stigma of mental health within the bus and coach industry, as well as promoting and facilitating early help-seeking by those affected by mental health issues.”
www.signalforhelp.com.au has become a vital resource, encouraging employees, colleagues, and managers to seek help for mental health issues and access the necessary resources and strategies. The website includes worker case studies specific to the industry, links to information and resources that help manage a range of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression and panic attacks.
The Signal for Help program focuses on:
- Raising Awareness: The website uses real-life examples to highlight various mental health challenges in the bus and coach industry, helping to normalise discussions and reduce stigma.
- Encouraging Early Intervention: It teaches employees and supervisors to recognize signs and symptoms of mental health issues, enabling better support for colleagues.
- Providing Resources: The program offers specific strategies and resources to assist those affected by mental health issues, guiding how to approach and support a colleague in need.
- Connecting to Support Services: Signal for Help directs users to online tools and telehealth options, such as Beyond Blue and The Black Dog Institute, for further assistance and support.
Over the past year, Signal for Help has made a positive impact, with many success stories and increasing community engagement. Going forward, BusNSW remains committed to promoting services and expanding its reach to ensure everyone in the bus and coach industry has access to essential mental health support.
For more information about Signal for Help, access the official website www.signalforhelp.com.au.
To learn how your workplace can get involved in the Signal for Help program, contact BusNSW via phone on (02) 8839 9500 or via email at