Bunbury and South West organisations have pulled out all the stops for this year's Mental Health Week celebrations.
This year’s events, taking place between October 7 and 14, acknowledge Mental Health Week’s impact over the past five decades.
Headspace is holding Headspace Day 2017 on October 9, giving the public the chance to learn more about the organisation.
This year’s Walk for Mental Health sees participants speeding round the Big Swamp Parkland on Friday, October 13.
October 14 features free-running school X5 Academy’s free have-a-go Day class at its Picton Road premises for enthusiasts aged 12 to 25.
The week also has community education events, a mental health expo, art exhibitions and an op shop glam social event.
All events and activities are planned by the Bunbury Mental Health Committee, featuring representatives from different health and wellbeing organisations.
Community First Mental Health Services manager Jerry Caruana noted this year’s theme is ‘connection’, as feeling connected was key to maintaining positive mental health.
“I think it’s about raising community awareness, mental health is like physical health – it’s everybody’s concern,” he said.
“We all need to invest in our mental health, so the community needs to be aware of what is out there and what they can do for themselves.”
Headspace Community Engagement Officer Penny McCall said the committee has provided a variety of Mental Health Week events to suit all ages and demographics.
“We all have our different strengths and different demographics that we work with,” she said.
“I think it is really important that there is a committee and that they do it really well, they plan Mental Health Week incredibly well each year.”
Head to the Mental Health Week website, https://mhw.waamh.org.au/, or more information.
Do you feel like you need help? Contact Rural Link on 1800 522 022, Suicide Call Back on 1300 659 467 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
