THE cost-of-living crisis combined with the surge in petrol prices can lead to emotional distress and an amplification of existing mental health challenges.
In Port Macquarie support is provided by the Endeavour Clubhouse, a community funded initiative opened in 2015 which provides a safe, caring environment in which adults living with a mental health condition can find support during their journey of recovery.
The Clubhouse’s members, many of whom live with complex mental health conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, participate in activities that draw on their own skills and strengths to build confidence, create new relationships, develop further independence, and increase participation in the community.
On 19 March the organisation held their annual Wellness Walk at Town Green, with the walk celebrating community connection, belonging and mental wellbeing.
CEO Garth Norris told News Of The Area, “it’s been a difficult couple of months for people living with mental ill health, as we have seen more failures in the mental health service system leading to terrible incidents that have reinforced hurtful, negative stereotypes about mental illness.
“Our hope is to inspire more positive community attitudes around mental illness and to increase community participation for people with mental ill health by reducing stigma and challenging harmful stereotypes,”
This year’s event commenced with speeches and a musical performance by members and culminated in a free BBQ cooked by the Port Macquarie Lions Club.
The Australian Institute of Health and Wellness estimates that 43 percent of Australians aged 16 to 85 years will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their life.
Endeavour Clubhouse is open Monday to Thursday 9am-3.30pm.
By Rachael THORPE
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