General News
11 September, 2025
Mental health centre of book launch
Important discussions around mental health will be taking place at the Dimboola Imaginarium next week as former Warracknabeal local Colby Bryce launches his book, 'Mental Wellness: The Secret Ingredients'.
Mr Bryce said he is grateful to launch the book in an area that means a lot to him.
"I love what the Imaginarium does for the community — their creativity, connection, and commitment is what makes small communities so special," he said.
"Launching my book there felt like the perfect fit, and it also allows me to continue conversations about mental health in rural communities, where support and prevention are so important."
Mr Bryce studied for eight years at Deakin University, where he completed a Bachelor of Health Science in 2012 before further studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science, a Graduate Diploma in Psychology and a Master of Applied Psychology.
Now a registered psychologist, nutritionist, and researcher with expertise in mental health, neuroscience, and holistic wellbeing, he brings his knowledge to help others improve their mental health and overall wellbeing, whether that involves managing stress, anxiety, low mood, or brain fog, or simply wanting to feel and function at their best.
Releasing it earlier this year, the book explores 10 critical factors that shape mental health and goes beyond traditional advice by examining every area of life that impacts mental wellbeing.
"As both a psychologist and a nutritionist, I wanted to show that mental wellness isn't about one quick fix, but about many small 'ingredients' working together," Mr Bryce said.
Each chapter provides easy-to-follow strategies and concludes with a simple checklist to help implement them, covering everything from the food consumed and the quality of sleep to the amount of time spent outdoors.
"It combines science, lived experience, and practical tools," he said.
"I feel excited about the conversations it can spark - especially in rural communities - around shifting from crisis management to prevention and long-term wellbeing.
Mr Bryce said he will be sharing ideas from the book in a "down-to-earth way", drawing on both psychology and nutrition.
"People can expect thoughtful conversation, practical takeaways for their own wellbeing and even a walk-through of a couple of mental health superfood recipes," he said.
"It's all about showing how everyday choices can support mental wellness and sparking reflection on what's possible when we focus on prevention and whole-person health.
"More than anything, I hope this event inspires people to see mental health not just as something to manage in tough times, but as something we can actively nurture and protect every day."
The launch is set for Tuesday, September 16, at the Dimboola Imaginarium with a time to be confirmed.
