Free event to mark World Mental Health Day

Removing the stigma around mental health will be the aim of a special event in Rochdale town centre next week.

Rochdale and District Mind has teamed up with Rochdale Borough Council’s Public Health team to mark World Mental Health Day on the Butts from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 12 October.

The event which will feature a series of activities, music, arts and crafts for both adults and children and will include:

• live music from local mental health service user bands Blue Pitts and BuzzAldrins
• the Carers Choir
• Zumba dancing
• African drum and dance
• face painting
• free goody bags
• health checks
• a wellbeing marquee with information stalls
• a dementia café

Councillor Colin Lambert, Rochdale Council’s Leader and Lead Member for Health, said: “Whether you want to find out about how to improve your own mental health, discover what support or resources are available locally or how to support someone else then this event will provide the perfect way to find out the relevant information.”

Herbert McKenzie, Rochdale and District Mind added: “With estimates that one in four people are affected by a mental health problem we hope to increase understanding and remove some of the stigmas surrounding mental health issues.

“Mental health problems cover a wide range of issues, including stress, anxiety depression and substance abuse. All of which can affect someone’s ability to get on with their daily life.

“Here at Mind we can provide information and support to make it possible for people who experience mental distress to live full lives and play their full part in society. Our vision is of a society that promotes and protects good mental health for all and that treats people with experience of mental distress fairly, positively and with respect.”

The day will also see the launch of a borough-wide campaign to raise awareness of signs and symptoms of postnatal depression with Rochdale and District Mind planning to run awareness groups and various sessions to help both mums and dads.  A new webpage will also be launched at www.rochdalemind.org.uk with helpful information and links about postnatal depression

For further information, help and advice from Rochdale and District Mind phone 0844 894 0180 or e-mail infohelpline@rochdalemind.org.uk.