SA small and family businesses receive free access to Mindarma
From today [07/02/24], South Australian small and family business owners and their employees can register for free access to Mindarma, an evidence-based program proven to enhance psychological resilience and protect mental health.
Under South Australia’s Small Business Strategy, the Mental Health and Wellbeing Program is a key initiative. Mindarma provides a practical way for small business owners to support their own mental health as well as that of their employees. Over ten short interactive sessions, Mindarma teaches a range of psychological skills and strategies. The e-learning program is available on computer, tablet or smartphone, providing anywhere, anytime convenience.
Mindarma was developed based on world-first research conducted at UNSW and the Black Dog Institute. The program is already supporting many thousands of Australians across a range of highly challenging roles, including emergency service workers, educators and other frontline workers. Thanks to SA government funding, Mindarma has now been specially customised to reflect the unique stressors faced by those working in small and family businesses.
Mindarma co-founder and principal psychologist Dr Sadhbh Joyce is delighted to be assisting small businesses across South Australia. “As a small business owner, I understand just how challenging it can be to look after a business, while also taking care of employees and your own mental wellbeing. Through Mindarma’s partnership with the SA government, we hope to provide SA small business owners with practical pathways towards better mental health, for both themselves and their workers.”
As well as completing the Mindarma e-learning program, small business users will be able to take part in a full calendar of webinar events. Psychologist-led skills sessions will enable participants to explore mindfulness, self-compassion and other restorative practises. Participants can also gain insights from leading experts on a range of topics. Mindarma’s first event is on February 19 and will focus on how managers can create a culture of care. All events will be available live or on demand through Mindarma’s Brain Food continuous learning platform.
In addition to event recordings, the expert-curated Brain Food platform offers access to a complete suite of mental health resources, including guided mindfulness audio tracks, videos, podcasts, articles, book recommendations, research and more. An Indigenous Wisdom section highlights Indigenous approaches to mental health, while collections on topics such as sleep, nutrition and financial wellbeing make finding relevant resources simple.
As a former small business owner, the Minister for Small and Family Business, the Hon. Andrea Michaels, knows it can be difficult for owners to look after their own mental health and wellbeing, as well as that of staff.
“In 2022, more than 60 percent of South Australian small business owners we surveyed reported mental health concerns, as well as feeling ill-equipped to manage the mental health of their employees. That’s why the State Government, through the Office for Small and Family Business, is proud to fund the Mental Health and Wellbeing Program,” says Minister Michaels.
With subscriptions to Mindarma usually retailing for $99, the free offer provides a major saving for small and family businesses.
Small business owners and their employees can register for Mindarma here.