Experiencing mental illness is not a sign of weakness and there is no shame in seeking help. This Mental Health Month, we can all play our part to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and promote positive mental wellbeing.
Calendar of events
The 2019 theme for Mental Health Month is ‘Conversations and Connection’. Conversations help support mental health and wellbeing and reinforce that we are not alone. Feeling connected to each other and our communities builds confidence, gives us a sense of belonging and brings meaning to our lives.
There’s a lot happening across the ACT this month, so why not get involved! From a comedy night and art exhibitions, to outdoor activities and family events, you might be surprised by what’s on offer.
To find an event near you, visit the Mental Health Month ACT website.
Mental Health and Wellbeing Expo – 10 October
Come along to the Mental Health and Wellbeing Expo this World Mental Health Day. Wander the markets, listen to live music, grab lunch at the sausage sizzle and learn some handy tips for improving your wellbeing.
What: Free Mental Health and Wellbeing Expo
Where: City Walk, Civic
When: Thursday, 10 October 11am – 2pm.
Host a Priori-Tea
In the spirit of this year’s theme ‘Conversations and Connection’ why not get together with your colleagues for a good cup of tea and a chat. Hosting a Wellbeing Priori-Tea is the perfect opportunity to unwind, check in with co-workers, and learn some helpful tips to improve your mental health. You can also use your event to help raise donations for a mental health charity of your choice.
Register your event online to receive the ‘Wellbeing Priori-Tea’ pack which includes a quiz to get the conversation started at your workplace as well access as to a variety of helpful wellbeing tools and resources.
Support
If you or someone you know needs support, there are a number of services available.
If your situation is life-threatening, call Triple 000 immediately for help or visit your nearest Emergency Department.
If you need immediate support and assistance, please call the Crisis and Assessment Team (CATT) on 1800 629 354 or 02 6205 1065. CATT offer mental health services that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. These services give you access to assessment and treatment services and offer advice and information on a range of mental health issues.
If you or someone you know struggles with mental health issues or feels overwhelmed, please remember you are not alone.
There are many people and services that can give you help and support:
24/7 Phone Support
- Beyondblue – call 1300 22 4636
- Lifeline – call 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service – call 1300 659 467
- MensLine Australia – call 1300 789 978
- Kids Helpline - 1800 55 1800
ACT Support Services
- ACT Mental Health Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team- call 1800 629 354
- Adult Community Mental Health Teams
- Belconnen Mental Health Team – 6205 1110
- City Mental Health Team – 6205 1338
- Tuggeranong Mental Health Team – 6205 2777
- Woden Mental Health Team – 6205 1488
- Gungahlin Mental Health Team – 6205 1110
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services – CAMHS
- CAMHS Northside – 6205 1050
- CAMHS Southside – 6205 1469
- The Way Back Support Service – 1800 929 222
Other support and information services
- SANE Australia Helpline – call 1800 18 SANE (7263)
- Headspace – 1800 650 890
- youthbeyondblue – 1300 224 636
- Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia (PANDA) – 1300 726 30
For more information visit the Office of Mental Health and Wellbeing.
