1. What are your backgrounds (profession/ workplace/ training)?
Amy- Medicine - I'm currently an intern at Monash Health.
Rachel- I'm coming up to the end of my intern year at Monash Health, and hoping to eventually pursue a career in paediatrics.
2. What inspired you to become a Water Well volunteers?
Amy- Quite a few of my friends have been involved with The Water Well project and hearing stories from them really made me want to get involved, especially in the midst of the current refugee crisis. What better way of providing medical education and making these the migrant groups feel welcomed by the community using my own knowledge and skills? 🙂
Rachel- The Water Well Project is a great way to spread health literacy and to empower people to take care of their bodies (and minds!) I also love being able to use my skills and knowledge to help a vulnerable segment of our community.
3. Please share one of your favourite Water Well sessions or moments.
Amy- Sitting down on the floor with all the mothers and their kids, talking and really getting to know them personally before the session would have been the highlight for me!
Rachel- The first session I helped facilitate was on Healthy Eating/Nutrition and I got to spoon sugar into a measuring jug to show how much is hidden in common packaged foods. Definite eye opener for everyone (it may also have helped me kick my Tim Tam addiction).
4. What tips do you have for new volunteers?
Amy-
Be flexible! The sessions vary and they can definitely divert from your original structure, however the most important thing is to address the group's concern and of course is to make sure that everyone has a great time!
Also smile and have fun, because then the participants will know that you are as excited about the session/topic as much as they are! 🙂
Rachel-
Be flexible - come prepared but also let the discussion flow around the group's needs and interests.
Don't overload too much information into the session. Leave plenty of time for interpreting, questions, or just to let things sink in.
Don't forget to have fun!
Mental Health Resources created by Amy and Rachel: Symptom flash cards and Coping Strategies Tip Box
