Thursday 8th September | Glenorchy City Council Lawns | 3:00pm- 4:45pm
The Glenorchy Youth Task Force (GYTF) will be hosting an event in support of the suicide
prevention organisation R U OK? to help promote mental health and wellbeing within the
community.
R U OK? Day is a national day of action that reminds people to regularly check in with family,
friends and workmates by simply asking R U OK?
The GYTF is a special committee of the Glenorchy City Council. It is the country’s longest running
council supported service.
“The Glenorchy Youth Taskforce have identified mental health as one of their key concerns and
the activities they have planned demonstrate how supporting one another can make a difference in
a person’s life.” said Mayor of Glenorchy, Kristie Johnston.
For this year’s campaign, R U OK? is asking all Australians to reconnect with the people in their
lives who matter most and in the process, help create a more connected world for all of us.
The GYTF is encouraging people in bringing along someone to the event they wish to spend more
time with.
This is the second R U OK? day the GYTF will be running following the success of last year’s R U OK?
Day which saw over 150 participants engaging in the activities.
The activities that will be included on the day are: a conversation café and ball pit, free hugs,
giveaways, a photo booth and much more. The GYTF will also be holding a free BBQ all in the aim
of engaging people in more meaningful conversations with others on a regular basis.
“R U OK Day activities provide an important reminder that sometimes asking the simple question
can help make a difference to a person’s mental health and wellbeing”, Mayor Johnston said.
The Mental Health Council of Tasmania (MHCT) will be there to support the special event alongside
mental health services such as headspace, Baptcare and Lifeline and Speak up Stay ChatTY who will
be there providing guidance and support to young people who attend.
MHCT CEO Connie Digolis said it is important for people to feel comfortable having these
conversations.
“It is about ensuring that people who might be going through difficult times know that they are not
alone. There are so many supportive people out there who will take the time to listen to what you
have to say.”
R U OK? Day is supported by Metro Tasmania, Glenorchy City Council and The Phoenix
Centre/Migrant Resource Centre.
Catherine Delpero (MHCT)
