Celebrating world mental health day in Pontefract

Members of the public, service users, carers are all invited to come along to this year’s World Mental Health Day celebrations at CISWO Community Centre, Halfpenny Lane, Pontefract on Friday 14th 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 there will be a kaleidoscope of activities on offer for people to have a go at, including creative writing, stress and anger management workshops, complimentary therapies, drawing, painting and making sculptures.

An exhibition of artwork from DIVA (an arts project for people with mental health problems) will also be showcased at the event.

Various voluntary, health and social care organisations will be giving out information, advice and support on mental health and other related issues.

PALS manager Linda O’Gorman says, "The world mental health day celebrations are really exciting. They bring together people from the wider community to promote positive messages about good mental health."

"World mental health day demonstrates that people who have suffered mental distress are both ordinary and extra ordinary people who have skills and experience to share. We are looking forward to a whole week of diverse activities," she concludes.

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