Start stalling for mental health

AWARENESS of mental health issues will be the focus of a special celebration next Thursday in Dandenong.
The Eastern Regions Mental Health Association (ERMHA) Mental Health Fun Day will take place at the Dandenong Market forecourt on Thursday 11 October with a host of exciting stalls and activities for the community.
Some of the entertainment and activities include a round-robin wrestling match, bush dancing, drumming workshop, opportunities to be involved in crafts and pampering, hair trimming, manicures and massages.
ERMHA CEO Peter Waters said the event would focus on the fact that one in five Australians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime.
“It is only when we act together as a community that we are able to combat the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness,” Mr Waters said.
“The value and importance of physical activity and healthy lifestyle as effective strategies in combating the effects of mental illness and improving mental health generally will be enforced during the activities on the day.”
The event coincides with Victoria’s Mental Health Week.
On Tuesday 9 October ERMHA will also host an art exhibition, featuring clients’ work at the Old Cheese Factory in Berwick.
ERMHA is a not-for-profit mental illness service provider covering Melbourne’s eastern and south-eastern suburbs.