Queenslanders are urged to come together in support of connection, community and wellbeing as part of Queensland Mental Health Week this week, Saturday 4 to Sunday 12 October.
The statewide movement, now in its 32nd year, aims to bring Queenslanders together to spark conversations, strengthen connections, and bring the importance of mental wellbeing to the forefront.
The week comes at a pivotal time, with demand for mental health support rising across Queensland, particularly in regional and remote communities.
Almost half of Australians (43 per cent) are expected to experience a mental illness in their lifetime, with one in five affected every year. Behind every statistic is a friend, colleague, teammate, or family member – a reminder that mental health touches all of our lives.
Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Ivan Frkovic said the week was a vital opportunity to foster understanding and connection around mental health.
“Mental health and wellbeing are essential for every Queenslander,” Mr Frkovic said.
“We all experience ups and downs, and over 40 per cent of Australians are estimated to experience mental illness at some point in their lives.
“Good mental health and wellbeing helps us live fulfilling lives, build strong relationships, and navigate challenges, but it takes effort and it’s something we need to work at and protect.
“By practicing the six building blocks of wellbeing – get healthy, keep learning, show kindness, connect more, take notice, and embrace nature – we can all support our mental health and wellbeing.
“This Queensland Mental Health Week, I encourage you to get involved – host or support a local event, take some proactive steps to look after your wellbeing, and check in with those around you – it can make the world of difference.”
From workplace wellness mornings to coffee-and-chats, Queenslanders are being asked to make mental health visible in their own communities by hosting and registering events in honour of Mental Health Week.
QMHW will be strengthened by $150,000 in community grants, supporting grassroots events across the state. From wellbeing expos and art exhibitions to workshops, festivals and morning teas, communities will come together to promote connection and wellbeing.
Queensland Mental Health Week is a reminder that communities thrive when people connect – and that no one should ever feel alone when it comes to mental health.
