A conversation about the power of words will be among several Logan City Council initiatives in support of Queensland Mental Health Week (QMHW).
QMHW is October 9-17 with the theme Take Time – for mental health.
Council has partnered with the Hopeful Mindsets Project and Shailer Park State High School to host a community conversation about online bullying.
The free event will be held from 6pm at Shailer Park State High School on Wednesday, October 6.
City Lifestyle Deputy Chair Councillor Tony Hall said the conversation would provide a special opportunity for families, students and the local community to come together to discuss such an important topic.
“We have seen an increase in online bullying and this is one way to equip families to deal with the online world,” Cr Hall said.
Cr Hall said the ups and downs of life can affect people differently and it has never been so important to take time for our mental health.
“With the changes to people’s daily life caused by the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 18 months, it’s important that people take care of themselves and celebrate well-being and recovery in our community.
“I encourage everyone to take time for your own mental health and get involved in some of the local activities during the week.”
For Kate Everett, from Dolly’s Dream, the impact of words is something she knows about all too well.
Kate and her husband Tick’s teenage daughter Dolly took her own life after she was bullied at school and online.
Kate will be speaking at the Hopeful Mindsets Project event at Shailer Park SHS.
“Words and actions are so important, she said.
“They can certainly hurt but they can also be wonderfully kind and uplifting.
“Our work focuses on bringing people together, to look out for each other and to be kind.
“The benefits to mental health and general wellbeing are remarkable.”
This year’s QMHW theme, Take Time – for mental health, encourages people to take time for their mental health with simple actions that can improve wellbeing.
Activities in the lead-up and during the week include:
- Wednesday, October 6: Lighthouse conversation on online bullying
- Friday, October 8: StreetFest event for Logan youth
- Monday, October 11: Mind Matters Mental Health Station at Logan Hyperdome
- Thursday, October 14: Walk and Talk for Wellness
- Friday, October 15: Chat and Chew group
