Save the date: Queensland Mental Health Week 2021

Communities across the State are being asked to consider how they will be involved in Queensland Mental Health Week 2021.

Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Mr Ivan Frkovic today said the pandemic and its social and economic fall-out had resulted in increased pressures across the community.

“On the positive side, awareness of those pressures has led to an increased focus on mental health and wellbeing, and I expect Queensland Mental Health Week 2021 – from 9 to 17 October – could be bigger and better than ever before,” he said.

“Mental Health Week aims to shine a spotlight on what all of us can do to look after our mental health and celebrate the contributions of the mental health and community sectors.

“Each year we’re blown away by the creativity and impact of events that inspire and educate Queenslanders across the State about mental health and wellbeing.

“Importantly, the week helps tackle stigma surrounding mental ill-health and prompts healthy conversations about topics that are often considered taboo.”

The date announcement follows the Queensland Mental Health Commission awarding not-for-profit organisation CheckUP the tender to coordinate the annual awareness week for the fourth year in a row.

CheckUP CEO Ann Maree Liddy said the organisation was proud to again be leading coordination of the week.

“Despite the impact of COVID-19, we saw hundreds of events and activities take place across the State last year,” she said.

“This year, we want even more communities to come together and get them talking about mental health.

“From hosting or attending an event, to volunteering or spreading the word, everyone can play a part in making Queensland Mental Health Week 2021 a success.

“Ideas and tips for how you can mark the week, as well as helpful resources and grant information, will be shared on the Queensland Mental Health Week website over coming months.”

Visit qldmentalhealthweek.org.au/subscribe to subscribe to the Queensland Mental Health Week enewsletter and stay up to date on planning for 2021.

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Safe media reporting

Visit the Mindframe website at mindframe.org.au/ for advice on how to support safe media reporting, portrayal and communication about suicide, mental ill-health, and problematic alcohol and other drug use.

Media enquiries

Lisa Maynard, QMHW Coordinator, CheckUP
info@qldmentalhealthweek.org.au, 07 3105 8308