Chamberlain was humbled by the people present and acknowledged the different levels of rich knowledge and skill in the room.
''In the Mid Canterbury community we have this richness of wellness of people who are happy to give their time to make sure others are well.''
''You may learn nothing at all today but the main thing is you're mixing among others, and that's part of wellness. That's connectivity.''
The session covered wellness, reflection and sleep, delivered through the skills of Chamberlain and his engaging story-telling abilities.
There were also breakout sessions, and time to talk to others about their experiences.
Chamberlain spoke about his family, his time in the police force and the raw effects of policing in Southland as a young man ''10 foot tall and bulletproof'', moving to Ashburton in the mid-1980s, through to his realisation when it was time to leave the police force.
''I had huge anxiety which was not logical ... I made an exit plan [from the police].
''I'm very well now, but it didn't happen straight way. I had to do a bit of work on it.''
He realised pretty early on policing was not just a job.
He was seeing things most people were not seeing day-to-day, like tragedies such as plane crashes, driving fatalities, effects of suicide, drownings and, more recently, the Christchurch earthquakes, and the Winz shooting in Ashburton.
He also policed during the Springbok Tour.
He said of telling family members of a sudden death and their varied responses ''no training can prepare you to do it''.
However, throughout his policing, he was dealing with the issues as a professional.
He had a wall.
''I wasn't going to share it with other people, because I didn't want other people to feel like me. But all I was doing was preparing myself for a fall.''
Chamberlain gave a personal message.
''You need to share what you are doing as volunteers with someone, 'cos most people in this room will be dealing with the tragic side of doing it - you need to communicate that, if you bottle it up it will come back and haunt you.''
He said people should ask themselves: what are the different methods for dealing with stress in my life? Are those methods working? Are they safe for me and others around me?
And are these strategies for coping a positive influence, and are they sustainable?
He said going home and having a gin every night is fine, but if you're having six, you might need to do something about it.
Some of the strategies used by attendees included listening to music, reading, guided meditation, exercise and breathing techniques, but there were those who internalised it before needing to talk it out.
Chamberlain said a lot of people in the community were in need.
''Mental unwellness is not a weakness - it's no different to us waking up with a sore stomach or getting a sore leg after a jog.''
He said there was always going to be some people who needed professional help, but there was a basic level to being well.
''I thought I was 10-foot tall and could take everyone's problems on my shoulders, but I don't think anyone can.
''We need to look after ourselves.''
Learn to say no to others, to allow time for yourself, be disciplined with your time to make time for yourself, don't be afraid of making changes when things no longer feel right, surround yourself with honest people and find an outlet that allows you to switch off.
Where to get help:
Rural Support Trust: 0800 787 254
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
Youthline: 0800 376 633
Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (available 24/7)
Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)
Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
