Celebrating world mental health day in North Kirklees

Members of the public, service users, carers are all invited to come along to this year’s World Mental Health Day celebrations at Mirfield Day Centre on Tuesday 11th October, 10-3pm.

The event is one of many celebrations taking place across South West Yorkshire Mental Health Trust that aim to raise the profile of mental health issues and help to remove the stigma that surround mental illness.

The theme this year is "Mental & Physical Health Across the Lifespan" and a kaleidoscope of activities including; tai chi, relaxation, crystal therapies, reiki healing, exercise to music, massage, imaginative writing, music and digital photography workshops are planned. There will also be a question and answer session with a psychiatrist. The event has been organised by people who attend Mirfield Day Centre and many of the activities will be led by them.

An array of voluntary, health and social will be at the event to give out information, advice and support including carers groups, Batley self help depression group, St Anns befriending scheme, Mind, cloverleaf and work link.

PALS Development Worker Glynis Stirling says, "We want to encourage people who have mental health problems, their carers and members of the public to come along and find out more information about mental health such as what can be done to alleviate mental health problems and how to take care of your own mental health.

"The theme of the day is how physical health impacts on mental health and visitors will have a chance to learn how mental health can be improved through exercise, healthy eating, relaxation, creativity," she explains.

All events are free of charge and lunch will be provided as well as a quiet room for anybody wanting some ‘time out’. It is open to the public, carers, relatives, staff and people with mental health needs. For more information call the patient advice and liaison service (PALS) on 0800 5872108.

For more information about World Mental Health Day and the events that are being held visit www.southwestyorkshire.nhs.uk