Just a Thought has partnered with Deaf creative agency, Deafradio, and with support from the Ministry of Social Development, to provide free online therapy courses to New Zealand's Deaf and hard of hearing community.

Two courses on the Just a Thought platform have been released in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) – which is one of three official languages in New Zealand alongside te reo Māori and English. The courses, Mixed Depression and Anxiety and Staying on Track – a guide to support your wellbeing during times of stress and uncertainty, are available online and will teach learners how to manage mental health challenges using proven strategies based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

The Coalition of Deaf Mental Health Professionals spokesperson Linda Guirey says the key for Deaf mental health access and support is language, and mental health information is generally not accessible in NZSL, so Deaf people often miss out on critical education and support.

Deafradio's director Sonia Pivac, who is Deaf, assisted in the production of these courses as a cultural advisor and translator. She says she hopes the courses will give people in her community confidence and autonomy around managing their own mental health, as well as easy access to support in a way that works for them.

Just a Thought general manager Charlie David says he hopes these courses will go some way in bridging the gap for the Deaf community for accessible and effective mental health support. "For the past three years since launching, we've been on a mission to make mental wellbeing support available to every New Zealander. The New Zealand Deaf community is no exception. Both courses are free and available online – so they can be accessed anywhere, anytime. Removing any further barriers to support."

To view the free resources or sign up for one of the courses, please visit: https://www.justathought.co.nz/nzsl