Community spirit and science combine in WA mental health push
Āé¶¹Ö±²„ has launched the next phase of Western Australiaās campaign, drawing on Curtin that highlights the power of community engagement ā including participation in Menās Sheds ā to boost wellbeing and combat loneliness.
A survey of more than 330 members from 78 Menās Sheds across WA found that feeling safe, supported and valued encouraged regular participation, building stronger social networks and leading to a greater sense of purpose, comfort and companionship.
Lead researcher Professor Peter McEvoy from Curtinās School of Population Health said the findings demonstrated the importance of supportive community environments.
āOur research shows that when people feel included in settings like Menās Sheds, theyāre more likely to engage ā and that engagement can have profound mental health benefits,ā Professor McEvoy said.
āThis kind of meaningful social connection is a critical buffer against loneliness, particularly for older men facing life transitions like retirement or bereavement. These insights reinforce the core message of Act Belong Commit: that staying connected and involved can be life-changing.ā
Developed by the Curtin School of Population Health and supported by Healthway and the WA Mental Health Commission, Act Belong Commit encourages people to protect their mental wellbeing by staying active, connected and involved in meaningful pursuits.
Campaign Co-Director Professor Christina Pollard, also from Curtinās School of Population Health, said the next phase of the campaign would continue to share relatable stories that inspire action.
āKeeping mentally healthy is just as important as staying physically fit ā and the good news is there are simple, evidence-based actions we can all take to protect our mental wellbeing,ā Professor Pollard said.
āThis campaign shows that being part of something ā whether itās a community garden, a local football club or a Menās Shed ā is not only good for individuals but also strengthens communities.ā
With a network of more than 550 partner organisations, the campaign features groups such as the Waterwheel Community Shed in Armadale, Padbury Community Garden, Indigenous youth yoga program Deadly Minds, the High Wycombe Football Club and Menās Sheds WA.
Campaign Manager Jessica Nella, from Mentally Healthy WA, said the campaign focused on making mentally healthy behaviours easy and accessible.
āOur goal is to help people take that first step ā because whether learning a new skill, connecting with others or volunteering, small changes can lead to big improvements in mental health,ā Ms Nella said.
Curtin researchers will continue to evaluate the campaignās impact across WA, with Professor McEvoyās ongoing work with Menās Sheds WA set to provide further insights into how supportive community environments promote wellbeing.
For more information about Act Belong Commit, visit .



