MPHN’s Seryn Adams awarded Cootamundra Electorate Woman of the Year

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) employee Seryn Adams has been recognised as the 2022 Cootamundra Electorate Woman of the Year for her outstanding work in suicide prevention.

The award was announced as part of International Women’s Day and New South Wales Women’s Week event held by Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke MP.

MPHN CEO Melissa Neal congratulated Seryn and said the award was a fitting acknowledgement of her work supporting mental health and suicide prevention across the Murrumbidgee region.

“This public acknowledgement is a testament to Seryn’s passion and dedication to supporting mental health across the region and being recognised at this level is something we are very proud of as an organisation,” Ms Neal said.

“Seryn’s involvement in MPHN’s suicide prevention and aftercare has seen meaningful and practical support delivered for individuals and communities across the Murrumbidgee region.

“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my thanks to Steph Cooke for her recognition of Seryn with this most fitting award.”

Seryn Adams, MPHN’s Suicide Prevention Project Officer said it feels like an understatement to say she is honoured to receive this award.

“I find it funny when we are recognised for the work we do our first instinct is to think we don’t deserve it, there are other people doing bigger, better, and more significant things,” Ms Adams said.

“To be acknowledged in this way by Steph Cooke, someone I hold so much admiration for, truly inspires me to continue advocating for positive change, speaking out and stepping up for those who experience mental ill health and suicidality.

“As someone diagnosed with depression aged 19 and managed suicidal ideations for most of my adult life, I encourage anyone who may be struggling, to never stop seeking help, connect with people you trust and always harness the power of hope.

“I have been blessed to have some incredible mentors throughout my personal and professional life. The support of these mentors and the confidence they have shown in me allows me to do what I do, to continue showing up and bringing ideas to the table.

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank my employer, MPHN, in particular CEO Melissa Neal, and my manager Anita McRae for allowing me to turn my passion for suicide prevention into career. Working with incredible colleagues to support our many communities across the Murrumbidgee gives me a great sense of purpose.”