Understanding our community’s health needs
Over this past year we’ve been encouraging women to place an emphasis on preventative health and wellbeing. In the process we’ve been asking key questions to understand what some of the barriers are for seeking physical and mental health.
The Check Me Out project, brought to life by Mums of the Hills, Women’s Health East, and Phoenix Australia, was a community-driven initiative focused on the well-being of women, AFAB, and non-binary individuals. Through local roadshow events and lunch talks, this project created a welcoming space where people could connect with healthcare professionals and inspirational individuals, ask questions, and learn about their health. This initiative sought not only to empower individuals with knowledge but also to make mental and physical health support more accessible for those living with the unique challenges of life in the hills. Here’s a look at the outcomes, capturing both the strengths and needs within the community.
Participants came mostly from the Dandenong Ranges, with a smaller number from the Yarra Ranges, reflecting a community that has often weathered life’s storms, both figurative and literal. Many attendees were between the ages of 30 and 49, often balancing the demands of caregiving and work. These women and caregivers have shown remarkable resilience in facing compounding stressors, from caring for children to managing household needs, all within a region heavily affected by natural disasters and other challenges. Many have lived through the 2021 storms, the isolation of the COVID-19 lockdowns, and recent flooding. The weight of these experiences was clear, and Check Me Out was designed to provide a space for healing, learning, and, most importantly, connection
Mental Health Needs
Participants were concerned about their physical health and shared that they had consulted a variety of health professionals, including general practitioners, dentists, and optometrists. Despite this, many felt that financial limitations or lack of time kept them from addressing their physical health fully. Some felt hesitant, thinking their issues weren’t severe enough to “justify” seeking help, while others prioritized family and other commitments over their own needs.
The barriers that surfaced in these conversations painted a clear picture of the challenges many face in prioritising their own well-being. The project helped remind participants that their health matters, too—that taking care of oneself is just as important as caring for others. It encouraged community members to begin viewing their physical health as worthy of the same attention and compassion they show toward those around them.
Mental Health Needs
More than half of the attendees shared that they had reached out for mental health support in recent times, engaging with general practitioners, psychologists, and other counselors. Yet, while many have bravely sought help, they have also faced hurdles in accessing the care they need. For many, financial strain made regular care feel out of reach; others felt hesitant due to fear of judgment or stigma, while some were simply overwhelmed with the demands of daily life and felt they couldn’t prioritise their own mental health.
Encouragingly, many attendees reported feeling more open to seeking mental health support after attending the event. Check Me Out provided a space where these concerns were heard and validated, reducing the isolation that can come with mental health struggles. Nearly two-thirds of attendees said they felt more likely, even slightly, to seek support going forward—an inspiring outcome that speaks to the project’s power in fostering trust and openness.
The Financial Strain on Well-being
A common theme across these experiences was the impact of rising living costs on health and wellness. The day-to-day financial pressures—whether higher grocery bills, soaring utility costs, or stagnant wages—have made it difficult for many to afford even basic health services or to participate in the social activities that bring joy and comfort. Some felt cut off from friends and social support simply because of financial strain, adding to feelings of isolation and anxiety about the future.
For many in the community, the roadshows and lunch events provided a rare opportunity to connect without financial burden and without judgment—a reminder of the power of community care. It was an experience that reinforced the need for accessible resources that consider both financial and emotional realities, allowing people to tend to their well-being with dignity and support.
When they arrived, many attendees were uncertain about how much control they had over their health. But after connecting with professionals and listening to talks, some walked away feeling a new sense of confidence. They expressed feeling more empowered and aware of the steps they could take, big or small, to support their health going forward. This boost in confidence reflects the immense value of community-based initiatives like Check Me Out, which bring education and support right to the people who need it most.
Finally, the project revealed the many barriers people face in seeking both mental and physical health support. For many, financial constraints made accessing care challenging, and others faced social or emotional barriers, including the stigma around mental health or the struggle to prioritise themselves amid other demands. Yet the shared space of Check Me Out provided a foundation for change. Participants could voice their experiences, feel heard, and learn that they weren’t alone in their struggles. This collective validation is a powerful step toward overcoming those barriers, helping build a culture where it feels safer and more acceptable to seek help.
Through the stories, struggles, and successes shared at these events, the Check Me Out project has highlighted a clear need for sustained, compassionate support within the community. This initiative has shown the deep impact that comes from providing accessible, understanding, and non-judgmental health resources. It is a step toward building a healthier, more connected community, where individuals can care for themselves and others with resilience, strength, and hope.