2019-09-06
October is Mental Health Month in the ACT and a jam-packed calendar of events for all Canberrans has just been released.
This year’s calendar has over 35 events, which will be focussed around this year’s theme for the month, ‘Conversations and Connection’.
Minister for Mental Health Shane Rattenbury said all Canberrans should get involved.
“Mental Health Month is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of mental illness, reduce the stigma and highlight the importance of positive mental health and wellbeing in all our lives,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“Approximately half of all individuals (45%) will experience issues with mental health in their lifetime.
“This could be you or someone around you, like a family member, a friend, or a colleague. And that’s why it is important to come together as a community on this important issue.
“I encourage all Canberrans to hop online and check out the calendar of events to get involved in Mental Health Month this year. People can also pick up a hardcopy calendar at cultural institutions and cafes around Canberra.”
Executive Officer for the Mental Health Community Coalition (MHCC) ACT Simon Viereck says he is pleased to see lots of people getting on board and supporting Mental Health Month.
“There is a remarkable variety of over 35 events happening across all areas of the ACT this year making it the most events we have ever had,” Mr Viereck said.
“People can take part in an art workshop, join a walk, catch a film, attend a panel event and much much more!”
Some of the major events throughout Mental Health Month include the:
- launch of Mental Health Month – a Comedy Night at the Tradies Club in Dickson on 1 October;
- 2019 Mental Health and Wellbeing Expo in Garema Place on 10 October (World Mental Health Day); and
- Mental Health Month Awards on 29 October – an opportunity to celebrate the contribution people make to the mental health and wellbeing of people in the ACT.
The 2019 theme for Mental Health Month in the ACT is ‘Conversations and Connection’. Conversations are crucial to support mental health and wellbeing. Feeling connected to each other and our communities builds confidence, gives us a sense of belonging and brings meaning to our lives.
The MHCC ACT coordinate Mental Health Month each year in the ACT, which occurs in October and encompasses World Mental Health Day.
For more information on Mental Health Month in the ACT and to view the Calendar of Events, visit: https://www.mentalhealthmonthact.org/calendar