BE active, belong to your community and make commitments to the activities you engage in – that’s the message from mental health advocates in Western Australia this week.
This Saturday, October 2 marks the start of Mental Health Week and is a time to raise awareness of mental illness, reduce the stigma and reflect on what we can do to stay mentally healthy.
A group of dedicated and passionate community members in Bunbury have organised events to celebrate Mental Health Week from October 2 to 10.
This year there will be an art exhibition, a family fun day and a free dance event.
Personal Helpers and Mentors program manager Jerry Caruana said it’s important to invest in physical health through healthy diet and exercise.
“Each year, one in five Australians experience some form of mental illness,” he said.
“Anyone can be affected and we can all look out for one another and simply ask a friend or family member the question are you OK?
“It’s important to understand that people can and do recover from mental illness.”
Headspace Bunbury centre manager Nicky Smith said if we keep active, get involved in community life, and do things that give us a sense of meaning we can cope better with problems and stress.
If you want to speak to someone in person you can head down to down to Bicentennial Square on Wednesday, October 7 and meet one of the local mental mealth service providers.
If you need urgent support call Lifeline on 13 11 14
Sunday, October 4: Capel Youth Advisory Council – Keep them Safe and Healthy, a family safety day with protective behaviours workshops. Email Lesley Jackes LJackes@capel.wa.gov.au
Monday, October 6: Centrepoint Shopping Centre art exhibition displaying work from people who have experienced mental illness. The public can vote in the people’s choice award from 9am.
Wednesday, October 7: Act-Belong-Commit Family Fun Day and Mental Health Expo at Bicentennial Square from 10am to 3pm. There will be activities, food vans, raffles and information displays.
Friday, October 9: No Lights, No Lycra a casual, free-form dance class from 7.30pm to 9.00pm at the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre. Spaces are limited to get your free ticket go to eventbrite.com.au
