Mental Health Movement and Bendigo Bank have partnered together to deliver two free workshops in July for people to learn about mental health, identify issues and start the conversation about it.

“The workshops are focused on mental health awareness and education providing participants with simple tangible tools they can use for self-awareness and improved mental health management,” says Dan Hunt, Co-Founding Director and CEO of Mental Health Movement.

“They also give participants skills to identify declining mental health and confidence to start and hold important conversations when supporting fellow community members, friends or family.”

The workshops will go for two hours and are open to anyone over 16 years.

Mr Hunt says they are important because when people in the community choose to be part of the change and learn about practice strategies, support and interventions, the more emphatic, resilient and supportive a community will be.

“In the last few years with COVID, restrictions and other contributing factors, people are under additional stress, pressure and are facing new challenges in everyday life,” he says.

“Starting the conversation with a friend or family member can literally change or save a life.

“You don’t have to have anxiety, depression or any mental illness to benefit from these sessions.

“One fifth of people will experience mental ill-health in any given year, but everyone needs to know how to look after their mental health and support one another.”

Mental Health Movement are also looking to hold two youth workshops in the coming months if there is interest in the community.

The Gerringong workshop

Wednesday

20 July at Gather By The Hill from 5.30-7.30pm. Book here.

The Kiama workshop

Wednesday 27 July at Kiama Leagues Club

from 5.30-7.30pm. Book here.