It’s your ABC’s but not as you know them.

Awareness, Belonging and Connection are not only three core elements of maintaining a positive mindset, but also form the theme for this year’s Queensland Mental Health Week (QMHW).

The annual awareness week kicks off on Monday 10 October and aims to shine a spotlight on individual and community mental health and wellbeing.

Linda Hipper, Acting Director of Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Services (MSAMHS) said QMHW was an important date in the Service’s calendar, with the need to educate the community about the importance of mental health in their everyday lives elevated after a strange and isolating few years.

“We are starting to see the impacts the pandemic has had on the State’s mental health, and it is evident Queenslander’s need support to enhance their mental health,” Ms Hipper said.

“We have many fantastic, free services available to those living in the Metro South region and QMHW gives us a timely opportunity to bring awareness to the help that is available.”

Each year MSAMHS plays an important part in leading initiatives across the Metro South Hospital and Health Service during QMHW, with 2022 being no exception.

The Addiction Services Preventative Team have once again spearheaded a 10,000 Steps Challenge, while other events include a week-long celebration at Bayside Mental Health Unit, the seventh annual Thrive by the Bay event, and the 12th annual Brisbane Mental Health Expo.

Ms Hipper said she was once again blown away and extremely grateful by the efforts staff had gone to, to support QMHW and was sure the community would benefit greatly from attending one of the events.

Information about the free community events can be found by visiting the Facebook pages: Thrive By The Bay | Cleveland QLD | Facebook, Brisbane Mental Health Expo - Home | Facebook