Mental Health Council of Tasmania launches Mental Health Week

Thursday 29th September| The Tramsheds Function Centre | 11:30am – 12.30pm

The Mental Health Council of Tasmania (MHCT) would like to encourage everyone to attend the official launch
of Mental Health Week tomorrow at the Tramsheds Function Centre in Launceston at 11.30am.

Mental Health Week is an annual event in October and is part of the national health promotion campaign. The
week is running from 9 – 15 October and we are proud to announce that for this year the theme is ‘Mental
Health Begins with Me.’

MHCT CEO, Connie Digolis, said that the theme sends an important message that everyone can and should get
involved.

“I think Mental Health Week is a wonderful way for people to not only be spreading the message that we are
all responsible for our mental health and wellbeing but to do so in a way that is both fun and accessible for
everyone.”

“We are encouraging schools, workplaces, families and communities to start having these conversations about
ways they can improve their mental health as well as ways to support each other in times of need,” said Ms
Digolis.

The launch aims to highlight the week long series of activities and events that will be held throughout
Tasmania in October for communities to support and promote mental health and well-being.

There are over 30 events being held state-wide during Mental Health Week from as far as King Island to
Zeehan to Kingborough and beyond. These events include: art exhibitions, community breakfasts, mental
health expos, family fun day activities and interactive workshops. Details of events open to the public can be
found at www.mhct.org/events

The Launch will be in collaboration with the Lifting the Lid on Mental Health Organising Committee who will be
hosting a forum on the 10th October in Launceston. The forum will feature a Q&A style panel comprised of
local community members and special guest Dr Mark Cross with the aim to create community discussion
around mental health.

The 2015 Tasmanian Mother of the year Lisa King is one of the panel members. Ms King was initially feeling
nervous about being on the panel but hopes by sharing her story it may help others.

“It’s never easy to admit that you have mental health problems, but I hope by sharing our stories that it may
let others know that they aren’t alone,” said Ms King.
Catherine Delpero (MHCT)