ChemCert trainer Ian Johnson has shared his recent positive experience with beyondblue, an organisation that works to reduce the impact of anxiety, depression and suicide in the community by raising awareness and understanding, empowering people to seek help, and supporting recovery, management and resilience.
Two years ago Ian underwent a brain operation. Even though the operation was a success, the recovery process took a long time leading to frustration, anxiety, depression and to numerous ‘every day’ illnesses.

Ian’s doctor advised that anxiety and depression could be a major contributor to his weakened immune system problem so he decided to contact the beyondblue Support Service after completing a 1 minute anxiety and depression checklist on their website.

A trained mental health professional at the beyondblue Support Service listened to Ian’s experience and advised him to work out a health strategy plan with his GP and referred psychologist to overcome anxiety and depression. Ian followed their advice and soon experienced positive results.

“It is amazing how many people in our industry suffer stress, anxiety and depression symptoms for various reasons. Not treated, this affects business, families, friends, personal happiness, relationships and lives. This is why organisations such as beyondblue are so vital” he said.

Ian shared his story because it may help others in the industry and he strongly encourages colleagues, friends and business associates to do the same should a similar problem arise.
ChemCert Training Group supports beyondblue in their mission to raise awareness of depression and anxiety and encourage people who are struggling to seek support.
“ChemCert & Agsafe’s support and fundraising for beyondblue is a wonderful initiative that shows that they are committed to more than just training people in how to ensure Agvet chemicals are safely used, sold, stored and transported. They are committed to the highest level of industry stewardship and duty of care and in my view a key component of stewardship is looking after people.”

To find out more about the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety, available treatments and where to get help, visiting the beyondblue website ( www.beyondblue.org.au ) or contact thebeyondblue Support Service 24/7 on 1300 22 46 36, or by via www.beyondblue.org.au/get-supportfor web chat (3PM-midnight) or email responses within 24 hours.