Wellbeing
Let's Chalk about Mental Health
Did you know that over 75% of mental health problems occur before the age of 25? Did you know that young people are less likely than any other age group to seek professional help? In fact, only 31% of young women and 13% of young men with mental health problems had sought any professional help.
These are alarming statistics for a significant cohort of our community. Perhaps that's why, Catia Sinigaglia and Lily Mason, both former DSC students have created an event as part of a global campaign to raise awareness of mental health issues. On 31 August, the girls are inviting us to come and chalk positive messages on the footpaths about dealing with mental health issues and removing the stigma at ‘Let’s Chalk about Mental Health’.
Catia says, ‘After losing my mother to suicide at the start of this year, mental health awareness has been an interest for me. Mental health is an invisible illness that needs to be taken more seriously. I think that it’s time to end the stigma and start promoting “Lets Chalk about mental health” as it will assist our community in breaking down barriers so we can continue to support each other.’
So let’s show our support to all those whose lives are touched by mental illness. Make a picnic basket and join in the fun.
Drew Hanna
Student Wellbeing Coordinator
Interview with former DSC student, Catia (Class of 2018)
"I was seeking events within the community that really brought people together to work towards the same goal, to improve mental health. This will be the start of many more events organised by Lily and myself"
How did the idea for ‘Let’s Chalk About Mental Health’ come about?
The idea “Let’s Chalk About Mental Health” came from a global event on Facebook. I originally shared the event and thought it was a great idea, one that I was willing to do on my own. After some thought, I realised this event would be a great way to get our community involved in raising awareness for mental health. Lily Mason and I then teamed up with Manningham Uniting Church to spread the word and promote this event within our community.
What do you hope people get out of the day?
I hope people get a sense of belonging out of this day, not only do we aim to raise awareness for mental health but we also hope our community knows that they have our support. We hope that this event will enlighten some, and help others to realise that we all battle our demons at times but that there is always support available. Along with that, we hope the day will bring new people together with the same vision, of helping each other and showing that they have the community behind them.
What is one thing someone can do each day to improve their/ another person's mental health?
I have a couple of things in mind. Firstly, showing gratitude. Many people focus on the one thing they want and forget to be grateful for all the things they have. I’d suggest every morning when you wake up. write/think of 10 things you are grateful for (e.g the bed you slept in, being able to taste, being able to see). It’s those little things we often forget about that are so important.
Secondly, GIVE! Giving opens the door to receiving. You may not realise it, but you have so many opportunities every day to give. Give kind words. Give a smile. Give your positivity. Give appreciation and love. Giving not only makes you feel good but makes the people around you feel good as well.
After incorporating these two things into my day to day life, not only have I bettered myself as a person but I’m more appreciative for the life I live. Both of these things have helped improve my mental health.
Why is raising awareness about mental health is so vital?
Many organisations are promoting mental health awareness which is important because it is an invisible illness that needs to be taken more seriously. I strongly believe that it’s now time to break down the barriers so we can all come together and be there for each other.
Annabel Carr
Alumni Coordinator
