Across October each year, Mental Health Month promotes the importance of good mental health in our everyday lives.

This year’s theme is We All Have a Role to Play. It encourages us to think about ways to connect with people to create a safe space for everyone.

Today, the Social Justice Council alongside the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle and CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning put mental health front and centre with a special event for staff.

Support services like The Rosewood Centre and CatholicCare’s GambleAware program were available to provide advice and raise awareness of their services.

Giant lawn games, wood painting, succulent planting, seated yoga, and walks around the Diocesan offices in Newcastle West were also on offer along with time to connect with our colleagues over a delicious Bacon and Egg Roll breakfast.

However, the highlight of the morning was a visit from Spencer the Border Collie. As a therapy dog with The Rosewood Centre, he provides comfort and companionship to people who need a bit of extra support…or a cuddle.

Find out more about Mental Health Month by visiting, mentalhealthmonth.wayahead.org.au/

WayAhead, the organisation driving Mental Health Month in NSW, has a number of resources available to support conversations during October. Including a Schools Pack, an Activation Guide, and other downloadable items. They are available via the website link above.

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