Kick up your heels at community expo
6 October 2010
Kicking up your heels for a dance demonstration or chilling at a session on mindfulness meditation – these are just two of the options that will be available at a free lunchtime community expo being organised as part of Mental Health Month.
People in Taree and surrounding areas are being encouraged to join in the fun and activity at the Connect for Life Expo to be held at the Uniting Church Hall and forecourt in Albert Street, Taree, from 10am to 2pm on Tuesday 12 October 2010.
The event has been organised by Hunter New England Health’s Manning Mental Health Service in conjunction with community partners including PRA Mental Health Recovery, Lifeline, PHAMS, Carer Assist, Taree North Rotary and Manning Valley U3A.
Organiser Judy Yarrington said the free event will include a range of demonstrations such as Zumba and other fitness activities, mini workshops, information stalls and even Living Books with some interesting stories to tell.
“People can come along and participate in their lunch break or spare time or they can make a day of it,” said Judy, a community nurse and mental health promotion worker with the Manning Mental Health Team.
“You can kick up your heels and try some folk dancing or line dancing, become involved in a singing group, watch a fitness demo, have a go at WII fit, or sit in on a session about mindfulness.
“You can come along yourself or bring family and friends – and it is all free.”
Mayor Paul Hogan will open the expo at 10.30am and there will be a welcome to country by local Aboriginal elder Aunty Barbara Clarke.
Getting connected with your communities and the value of friendships are the key focus of Mental Health Month.
“The focus of Mental Health Month this year is on resilience and in particular the importance of building and maintaining good friendships in the building of our resilience,” Team Leader Manning Community Mental Health, Ron Haigh said.
“One of the best ways to deal with a tough time is to draw on the support of other people who can listen and validate our feelings,” Ron said.
“Good friends help us bounce back, and tackling problems with others is a resourceful way to lessen our load.
“Friendships that create love and trust, provide role models, and offer encouragement, reassurance and hope are all important in building resilience and developing the strength and ability to bounce back from life’s challenges and setbacks.”
It is estimated that mental health problems will affect 1 in 5 Australians during their lives.
“Building resilience is important for our mental health. It doesn’t make problems go away, but it can provide the ability to see past the challenges, enjoy life more and handle future stressors better,” Ron said.
It was also important to recognise that we can’t always tackle problems alone.
“Seeking help early can prevent an issue from getting worse and help you bounce back to your life more quickly,” he said.
“If you think you might be struggling with a mental health problem or concerned about someone close to you it is important to seek help. Your GP would be a good first step, or you could contact your local Community Health Centre or Mental Health Service, or help lines such as Lifeline on 131114.”
For information and referral to Hunter New England Mental Health Services in the Lower Mid-North Coast region, contact 1300 369 968.
• Two sessions of the Let’s Talk About It series on mental health will be held at Greater Taree City Library during Mental Health Month.
‘Why people self harm’ is the topic being explored on Tuesday 12 October, followed by a presentation on bi polar disorder on Wednesday 13 October.
Both sessions are from 11am to 12 midday. Contact the library on 6592 5390 for bookings.
Contact: Frances Holz
Phone: 4939 2216