Northern Beaches Council plans to mark Mental Health Month with a range of activities that raise awareness and support people suffering from a range of conditions.
With the theme Share the Journey, this year’s Mental Health Month carries an important message about encouraging people to talk to family and friends, or to reach out to health professionals when things get a bit tough.
Mayor Michael Regan said with the stresses of everyday life, staying in good mental health is often underestimated in society.
“Looking after your mental health is just as important as maintaining your physical health. Getting support plays a vital role in managing and even overcoming a number of mental health conditions.”
The following Mental Health Month events will be held on the northern beaches during October:
Northern Beaches Mental Health Forum, Together on the Road to Recovery
Wednesday 3 October, 9am - 3.30pm, Dee Why RSL
Hosted by the Northern Beaches Mental Health Working Group, this free forum supports those on their mental health recovery journey and their family and friends. The forum features a range of informative and inspirational speakers including those with lived experience. Free lunch provided.
For more information contact: 02 8405 4444
Manly Invictus Games Walk and Talk
Until 31 October, Shelly to Queenscliff Walk
The Manly Invictus Games Walk and Talk activation celebrates the spirit of the Invictus Games by encouraging the community to get outside - walk and talk - with a friend, colleague or stranger.
Download fun conversation starters, grab a mate and walk some or all of the 2.6km scenic path. Start at Shelly or at Queenscliff Beach or pick it up anywhere in between. The mental health initiative builds on the principle that physical activity and talking to someone can positively impact a person’s mental health and wellness.
Take the Walk and Talk today!
Author Talk: Kim Hodges, Girl Over the Edge
Wednesday 3 October, 6.30 - 7.30pm, Warringah Mall Library
Academic and author Kim Hodges will discuss her second memoir Girl Over the Edge – a follow up to her successful debut about her experience with mental illness.
Bookings: Eventbrite
Youth events
Free workshops for 14 – 24 year olds and their parents and carers.
Feed Your Mind: Study and Stress WorkshopT
hursday 4 October, 6 – 8pm, Manly Library
Join local naturopath and nutritionist, Layla Metcalfe to discover the benefits of food for managing stress, increasing memory and improving study performance.
Bookings: KALOF
Courageous Communication Workshop
Tuesday 9 October, 6 – 8pm, Newport Community Centre
Do you know the right thing to say when a friend or family member is going through a tough time? Words can make all the difference. Learn how to deal with difficult conversations.
Bookings: KALOF
Mental Health Fair and Avalon Outdoor Cinema
Saturday, 20 October, from 6.30pm and movie begins 8pm, Dunbar Park, Avalon
Pack a picnic basket and head to Dunbar Park to join in Mental Health Month festivities. Have a chat with friendly support services staff to find out who they are and what they do. Then, sit back and enjoy the movie Wonder Women under the stars!
Parents also welcome. Free, come along on the night.
Sleep and Technology Workshop
Wednesday 31 October, 6 – 8pm, Northern Beaches Secondary College Cromer Campus
Lisa Maltman and Dr. Kristy Goodwin help parents and teens make good decisions about their sleep health while navigating our online world.
Bookings : KALOF
Further information: 9970 1629 or youth@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
For a full list of youth activities during October, visit KALOF