Words: Suzi Evans

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Bridging the Gap Between Zero and Psychologist

October is Mental Health Month - a time to pause, reflect and put a spotlight on the importance of mental fitness in our homes, communities and workplaces. For many of us, life feels like a constant juggle between responsibilities, expectations and the unexpected challenges that appear without warning. Stress, overwhelm and fatigue can leave people feeling isolated, undervalued and unable to perform at their best.

That’s where Workbench for the Mind comes in.

Created by mental fitness educator and facilitator Suzi Evans, Workbench for the Mind is an accredited program that gives individuals, teams and communities practical strategies to support their own mental health. Think of it like sorting through a ladies handbag or a car glovebox: we lay everything out, get rid of the tissues, faded receipts and organise the rest so that when life throws challenges, you can easily access the tools you need.

Why Mental Fitness Matters

We all have mental health, just as we all have physical health. Having a bad day, bad week or even a bad month doesn’t necessarily mean you have a mental illness. Mental fitness is about understanding that what you are feeling is normal for what you’re going through, while learning skills to manage stress, build resilience and create clarity in the moments that matter.

When we strengthen our mental fitness, we’re not only better for ourselves, there is a ripple effect for our families, colleagues and communities.

For businesses, the benefits are proven. Deloitte research shows that for every dollar invested in workplace wellbeing, the return is more than fivefold. Employees feel supported, morale improves and productivity grows. Importantly, workplaces also meet their responsibility to provide a mentally safe environment.

For communities, especially regional ones, mental fitness is about connection, hope and belonging. Whether you’re a farmer facing drought, a parent juggling multiple roles, or a small business owner navigating uncertainty, having strategies at your fingertips can make all the difference.

Bridging the Gap

I often say: “There’s zero to psychologist - nothing in between. Until now.”

Workbench for the Mind was created to bridge that gap. While traditional support services are vital, many people don’t reach out until they’re in crisis. This program helps people build a foundation earlier, so they can manage their mental narrative before reaching breaking point.

Delivered through face-to-face intensive programs and supported by an online component participants walk away with a framework they can apply immediately. This isn’t theory to be filed away, it’s lived experience, education and strategies that empower people to take charge of their mental fitness.

The 3-Hour Intensive

The signature Workbench for the Mind workshop runs for three hours. In just one session, participants explore:

• • What wellbeing means to them personally
  • The “1% of your day – Choose You” theory, showing how small daily actions create big change
  • Mindset shifts, including growth versus fixed mindset
  • Practical tools for navigating stress and overwhelm
  • Strategies for tolerance, understanding and acceptance

Each participant also receives 12 months of free ongoing access to the online component, so they can refresh their learning anytime.

Impact in Communities

Across regional South Australia, the impact has been profound. Farmers share that they finally have strategies to deal with uncertainty. Parents say they feel better equipped to model healthy coping for their children. Small business owners report a renewed sense of balance and focus.

One participant summed it up simply: “For the first time, I don’t feel alone. I feel like I’ve got tools I can actually use.”

That sense of connection is at the heart of Workbench for the Mind. Rural communities are resilient, but the pressures of cost-of-living, drought and isolation are real. These programs bring people together, provide education, and most importantly, create safe spaces for discussion, reflection and growth.

Impact in Workplaces

Workplaces are also seeing the benefits. Teams that participate in Workbench for the Mind walk away with a shared language for wellbeing. Instead of ignoring stress or leaving individuals to “tough it out,” workplaces build cultures where mental fitness is normalised and prioritised.

When staff feel supported, they’re more engaged and motivated. When leaders invest in mental fitness, they create not only healthier workplaces but stronger bottom lines. Mental fitness really is good business.

Why Now?

Mental health doesn’t wait for a convenient time. It touches all of us – whether directly or through someone we love. Mental Health Month is the perfect opportunity to stop, reflect and invest in resources that make a difference.

Workbench for the Mind offers just that: not a quick fix, but a foundation. Not just talk, but real, practical strategies.

An Invitation to You

Thanks to the PIRSA Drought Support Wellbeing Initiative 2025–2026, I am facilitating Workbench for the Mind three-hour intensive programs in:

• • McLaren Vale – 15 April 2026
  • Strathalbyn – 16 April 2026
  • Kingscote & Parndana – 20 February 2026

These programs are proudly supported by the South Australian Government’s $73 million Drought Support Package.

Each session is limited to 25 participants, so I encourage you to secure your place early by registering your interest at [email protected].

About Workbench for the Mind

Suzi Evans is an author and the creator of Workbench for the Mind. Her journey began after the heartbreaking loss of her son to suicide, inspiring her to transform lived experience into education and empowerment. Today, she equips communities and workplaces with strategies that bridge the gap, build resilience and remind people they are never alone.

For more information - or to bring Workbench for the Mind to your community or workplace visit www.suzievans.com.