Alcoa’s Blue Tree draws attention to mental health

Alcoa employees and contractors came together in support of mental health awareness and the Blue Tree Project.

Almost half of all Australian adults will face mental ill-health during their lives^ and it can have a significant impact on every aspect of their life. From behaviour to physical health, work and relationships, as well as the people around them.

Alcoa realises the importance of talking about mental ill-health to help remove the stigma and to encourage people to seek help when it becomes a concern.

The team at the company’s Kwinana Alumina Refinery recently threw their weight behind the Blue Tree Project, a community initiative which encourages people to speak up when battling mental health issues. Painting a tree blue also serves as a visual reminder that it is OK not to be OK and that people should check in on anyone suffering mental ill-health.

Kwinana Refinery Manager Mark Zaborowski said the company’s top priority was the health and safety of its people, both physical and emotional, and that painting the tree was a tangible reminder of the support available to colleagues, family and friends who might be struggling.

“The past 12 months have certainly taken a toll, and we want our people to know we take mental health seriously and that there is help if they need it,” Mr Zaborowski said.

“I am really proud of the team that lead this initiative as it really embodies our ‘Care for People’ value.

“By spreading the paint and spreading the message that ‘It’s OK to not be OK’, the team at Kwinana Refinery are hoping to help break down the stigma that is still largely attached to mental health.

“This is a visible sign of support for our colleagues, friends, and family members that might need a word of encouragement or listening ear,” he said.

There are more than 600 registered Blue Trees around the world. The initiative started in Mukinbudin in Western Australia and now features in the United Kingdom, Germany, the US and New Zealand. For more information about the Blue Tree Project visit www.bluetreeproject.com.au

^ Source: Mental health and suicide prevention | Australian Government Department of Health
https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/mental-health-and-suicide-prevention

ENDS

Media contact:
Ashley Wright, Community Relations Officer, 0429 637 350, Ashley.wright1@alcoa.com