Bendigo Community Health Services has launched its #5ways to Wellbeing campaign which aims to raise community awareness about mental health.
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The campaign includes five days of various activities which highlight the importance wellbeing plays in maintaining strong mental health.
Day one’s theme was ‘Take Notice’ which focused on stories of people making positive contributions to the community.
Ian Kellet was one of the community members who was recognised for his contribution as a volunteer and his dedication to sport.
“It came as a bit of a surprise,” Mr Kellett said.
“I was honoured by the Golden Square Cricket Club to be nominated as a volunteer.
“A major focus of our club’s centenary function was about bringing a whole heap of former players and their families back into the club.
“Trying to reconnect them with the organisation and make them feel a part of our community.”
Mr Kellett was featured in a video produced by BCHS where he discussed what motivates him to undertake community work and how volunteering for something you are passionate about can boost mental health.
There were a number of other individuals who were also recognised for their contributions to the community.
Day two’s theme was ‘Give’, which focused on schools and workplaces educating students and staff on how to build good mental wellbeing.
Day three’s theme is ‘Learn’and will have workshops on mindfulness to reduce stress.
Day four’s theme is ‘Connect’ where members from BCHS will be handing out cookies with messages which reinforce positive wellbeing.
Day five’s theme is ‘Be Active’, BCHS will be holding a free kids party at its Kangaroo Flat site starting at 4pm.
BCHS strategy planning analysis team member Leah Wastell said they hoped #5ways to Wellbeing would raise awareness about mental health wellbeing throughout the region.
“The areas we are looking to address are focused on building coping skills, self-efficacy, resilience and confidence,” Ms Wastell said.