Finding connections is one way of improving mental health.
It is also the message behind Uniting’s inaugural Mental Health Day, which took place at Dixon Park on Friday 6 October.
Between 10am and 3pm, members of the not-for-profit organisation were joined by representatives from a number of community groups at the popular Merewether outdoor space.
All were offering practical messages of hope and positivity for community members.
While tents lined the pathway, meditation and live music filled the grassed area and friendly faces manned the free barbeque.
“The day is basically about connecting,” says Uniting’s community development coordinator Kristy Chidgey.
“Connecting the community with the community services for their needs, whether it be mental health, whether it be employment, whether it be crisis support, suicide prevention, housing, it’s about all of those things coming together.
“Not one service fits everybody. You need to see what’s out there, and if we’re all here together, connecting, then that’s a great solution for everybody.”
The event, the first of its kind for Uniting Newcastle, offered an opportunity to showcase local community services in the area that people can access for mental health.
“Mental health does not discriminate,” says Uniting NSW/ACT head of mental health services Chantal Nagib.
“Collectively we need to work together to strengthen our communities and support those most vulnerable.
“Together we can make a difference creating stronger communities that support people’s wellbeing and resilience.”
The group is hoping the event becomes and annual feature on the calendar, continuing to grow in popularity.
“Uniting feels it is so important to let our communities know we are here to help, and no one needs to go through mental health struggles alone,” Mrs Nagib says.
This Mental Health Month, Uniting is encouraging the community to take time to care for themselves, to care for someone close to them, support a member of the community or becone a better mental health ally.
“We all have a role to play.”
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