“They came from all walks of life; individuals, couples, businesspeople, and a strong representation of farmers,” Mrs Hollingworth said.

She has received very positive feedback from those who took the opportunity to learn how to look out for and assist those who are struggling with mental health issues.

“People especially appreciated the empathetic way the workshop was delivered,” she said.

“It de-stigmatised a lot of issues.”

Mrs Hollingworth said the Centre for Rural and Remote Mentals Health’s Meg Perceval presented the workshop in a very interactive way, emphasising the point that everyone can take steps to support their wholewellness by undertaking daily exercise, improving their diet and seeking support from friends.

“Everyone has days that seem overwhelming, and it’s those days that we may need to seek some support,” Mrs Hollingworth said.

Entertainer Little Phoenix – who was instrumental in getting the fundraiser underway that is financially supporting the community-initiated workshop – participated in the event as well as providing entertainment at the get-together that followed.

“It empowered people to approach those they are concerned about, and offered practical strategies for dealing with the situation,” she said.

“I found it helped with establishing a balance of recognising what is in your control, and what isn’t, and the importance of getting someone else’s perspective.”

Although the event was supposed to be a one-off, organisers have now gauged there is sufficient interest to run another workshop, probably before the end of August, and Mrs Hollingworth said there certainly remains a need given the ongoing tough economic conditions the community is facing.

“The depth of the dry winter, feeding livestock, seeing dams dry up and livestock dying… this is beyond the management capability of the most innovative farmer,” she said.

Anyone in distress or knowing someone who is can phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 for support.