As a positive and optimistic person, the Seymour resident found himself at a loss after a period of sustained workplace bullying.
“When I was workplace bullied, I felt at my lowest and I didn't want to attend work,” he said.
“For me to not to want to attend work, I knew that I was at my lowest.”
The experience that followed opened Branden’s eyes to the type of support available in the community.
“Making sure that I actually called the medical centre and actually booked in that appointment was one of the best things for myself to be here today,” he said.
Now Branden, 24 and originally from George Town in Tasmania, is keen to talk with other members of the community about his story, the types of mental health support available and the importance of sharing how you are feeling.
It is this desire that led him to establish Branden’s Golf Adventures.
Established last year, Branden’s Golf Adventures is a program where Branden combines his love of golf with his passion for talking about mental health. Every weekend, he posts where he will be playing golf, who he has played with and a review of the experience. He is hoping that over time he will attract enough interest from clubs and other community organisations to invite him to promote mental health awareness.
Already, Branden has spoken at Kilmore Golf Club and Seymour Rotary Club. In his speech, he talks about the importance of looking out for colleagues at work and the valuable role of medical assistance.
“Just going up and asking that question, ‘how are you?’ could actually make an impact in someone's day or life,” Branden said.
“I'm just trying to bring that message in, to create awareness around making sure the mental health of work colleagues is on the right path, and if not, putting them on the right path.”
Branden is also keen to support other young people experiencing depression.
“It doesn't matter who you are in life, there's always people in jobs who are professional and know how to help you — a psychologist, a doctor,” he said.
“Just know that those people are medically trained to be able to put you on the right road to recovery. Because you are important — not only important to yourself, but your loved ones.”
If you would like Branden to speak at your organisation, email brandensgolfadventures@hotmail.com or visit the Branden’s Golf Adventures Facebook page.
If this article has raised any concerns for you or someone you know, phone Lifeline on 131 144 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
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