National Prevention Week: Prevention Is the Strongest Form of Protection
- Shane Warren
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
MEDIA RLEASE / AWARENESS STATEMENT
For Immediate Release
10 May 2026
During National Prevention Week, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) highlights the critical importance of prevention in protecting both physical and mental health.
Prevention is not simply about avoiding illness, it is about building resilience, strengthening communities, and addressing challenges before they escalate into crisis.
While much public attention focuses on treatment, prevention is where long-term wellbeing truly begins. Early support, healthy habits, respectful relationships, safe workplaces, strong families, and accessible community services all form part of a preventative health framework.
VMHPAA Chair Shane Warren said:
“Prevention is smarter than reaction. When we invest early in mental health literacy, youth services, family support, workplace wellbeing and community connection, phsycial illness and more we reduce suffering, cost, and long-term harm. Prevention is not an optional extra; it is sound public policy.” Shane Warren said.
Mental health prevention includes:
Early identification and intervention
Trauma-informed education and parenting support
Strengthening protective social networks
Addressing stigma before it isolates people
Promoting psychological safety in schools and workplaces
VMHPAA Secretary Susan Sandy added:
“In my work, I’ve seen how early conversations and small supports can prevent much larger crises later. Prevention builds confidence, stability, and hope.” Susan Sandy added.
National Prevention Week reminds us that wellbeing is not built in emergency rooms alone. It is built in homes, classrooms, workplaces, sporting clubs, and community centres through proactive, compassionate action.
VMHPAA encourages all Australians to consider what prevention looks like in their own lives and communities, and to take practical steps that support long-term health for everyone.
Prevention is key to a healthier, more resilient future.
Media Contact:
Shane Warren, Chair
Susan Sandy, Secretary
Philip Armstrong, CEO
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