Michelle Cooper is a business woman, wife, mum, triathlon coach, sport enthusiast and Triathlon Australia’s first female President, The Mental Awareness Foundation catch up with Michelle Cooper with some rapid-fire questions on how much importance is put on mental health for the driven business woman of Brisbane.
MAf: Can you please share the importance of what being “mentally fit” means to you?
MC: Being mentally fit means I can be the best version of myself possible in each of the roles I undertake: mum, spouse, friend, coach, employee etc but most importantly that I can show up for myself and my own needs.
MAf: What are some of the things you do to keep mentally fit?
MC: I have a deliberate practice of creating a transition between my roles so I can mentally decompress and then prepare for what I am about to do. I read, have a bath, walk or get some fresh air for between 5 and 30 minutes to create that space. I exercise almost every day in some way and I pay attention to the signs of getting tired that mean I need to look at myself carefully for self-care needs.
MAf: In your opinion, how can we strive to be more aware of mental health issues in the community?
MC: Talking about it is the most important thing we can do. It surprises people to hear that others feel or have felt the same way and so by sharing our own challenges we reduce the stigma and fear of speaking up which can inhibit our ability to access resources and support.
MAf: Why support the Mental Awareness Foundation and Walk for Awareness?
MC: The most common response I hear is “really? You too?” when people are talking to each other and so creating awareness is a vital first step. The Mental Health Awareness Foundation and the Walk for Awareness provides a safe environment that combines fresh air, walking and conversation to bring people together.
If you could have a cup of coffee or tea with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
It would be Arianna Huffington to talk about the importance of sleep!
Join Michelle Cooper and Walk for Awareness with the Mental Awareness Foundation on Sunday 10th October. For event information and to register visit walkforawareness.org.au
