From BikeSheds to Clubhouses – how selectability’s programs combat loneliness

With research showing that loneliness and social isolation can be as damaging to an individual’s health as smoking 15 cigarettes per day, programs like selectability’s BikeSheds and Clubhouses are becoming increasingly important in improving mental wellbeing and contributing to suicide prevention across regional Queensland.

Most regional Queenslanders will experience loneliness at some point in their lives, but what does it really do to our mental health? And what can you do about it?

selectability Chief Operating Officer, Aaron Farrell said loneliness was a key trigger for suicide, and even before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Australia was experiencing a loneliness epidemic.

“Humans are a social species that need regular connections and strong social surroundings in order to survive,” Aaron said.

“These aspects of loneliness are an important target to the group programs selectability delivers, such as the BikeShed, clubhouses, Mental Health Hubs and the Well Man ambassadors.

“These programs focus on improving mental wellbeing through socialisation.”

Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety and panic attacks often stem from low energy or motivation, triggered by feelings of loneliness.

With that in mind, here are some factors to help overcome loneliness and isolation and what selectability is doing to improve the wellbeing of regional Queenslanders:

 

Improving your social connection with friends and family

When feeling lonely, it can be challenging to connect with others, but it is a necessary step for better mental and physical health.

Research has shown that reaching out to friends and family, or even simply joining a social club are effective ways of overcoming loneliness.

selectability’s clubhouses are a great example of this through use of a safe, peer-supported environment to support individuals to make friends and learn new skills.

“Our clubhouse programs are open to adults with a lived experience in mental illness,” Aaron said.

“Members choose which activities they want to participate – giving them control over their own mental wellbeing journeys.”

selectability currently delivers the clubhouse program across its footprint, including, Townsville, Ingham, Mackay, Mount Isa, Longreach and Charters Towers – with more to come in the near future.

Getting active

Above its improvement on physical wellbeing, exercise is proven to have a significant positive impact on mental wellbeing.

Overcoming loneliness was a key driving factor behind the development of selectability’s BikeShed program.

BikeShed is a community-based program providing a welcoming, safe space for regional Queenslanders to connect.

“Our BikeSheds are loosely based on the Men’s Shed concept and are a wonderful, inclusive space for locals to engage with other members, become more active, work on projects and improve their mental wellbeing,” Aaron said.

 

Volunteering

Volunteering helps to overcome feelings of loneliness by helping individuals make connections while participating in meaningful projects.

Developing friendships through a shared purpose is an effective way of maintaining strong relationships, preventing loneliness.

A great example is selectability’s Well Man Ambassador initiative -a new volunteering program known operating in Charters Towers with the vision of expanding to new areas.

Well Man Ambassadors are locals who volunteer time to the community to improve mental wellbeing and link people to the support services they need.

The good news for those experiencing loneliness is there are a wealth of support and services available to connect people to their communities and overcome social isolation.