PREPAID ‘connection postcards’ are expected to be distributed to four million homes across the country in September, in an effort to encourage people to check in with their friends and loved ones.

The collaboration between Australia Post and Beyond Blue comes after research indicated nearly half of all Australians will face mental health challenges during their lifetime, and one 10 Australians experience loneliness in any given year.

The postcards will primarily be delivered to regional and rural households, in an effort to connect residents with important mental health information, services and each other, according to Australia Post executive general manager community, sustainability and stakeholder engagement, Tanny Mangos.

“Feeling connected plays an important role in our mental health and wellbeing – in an increasingly digital world, taking the time to write a note to a friend or loved one reminds them you are thinking of them and is often cherished,” she said.

“Australian Post helps to keep people connected each and every day and we look forward to our ‘connection postcards’ being received all across the country.

“Together with Beyond Blue we have been running this initiative for three years now and are delighted to have delivered more than 11 million connection postcards since 2021.”

Beyond Blue chief executive officer Georgie Harman said the partnership with Australia Post played a significant role in sharing important mental health messages with the community.

“The arrival of the free postcards in letterboxes and post offices represents a powerful gesture of support, enabling Australians to reach out, check in and remind one another of the strength that lies in supporting a friend or family member,” she said.

“Almost everyone experiences loneliness at some stage in their lives, especially those living in rural and remote communities, which is why initiatives like this one are so important to support good mental health practices.”