Ocean Mind celebrate World Mental Health Day

MORE than 40 locals braved the cold this morning (Tuesday, October 10) and joined Ocean Mind to paddle out at Fishermans Beach in Torquay as part of the worldwide celebration of World Mental Health Day.

The paddle-out aimed to unite the community to raise awareness for mental health, suicide prevention and ocean conversation.

World Mental Health Day was established by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is held annually.

Ocean Mind’s event is part of the global efforts of the International Surf Therapy Organisation (ISTO) and one of many held across the globe on October 10.

Ocean Mind founder Rachael Parker said opportunities to get in the water provide proven therapeutic value, social connection and stress relief.

“We were thrilled to see so many people turn out to connect and raise awareness for community mental health and wellbeing.

“Mental health is something we need to be aware of and we need to continue to break down the stigma around it.

“This year, the theme is mental health is a universal human right, meaning everyone has the right to have good mental health and should have access to the support they need if something is not going great.

“That sort of concept runs really deep in Ocean Mind and why we set up. We wanted to make sure our young have access to services when they need.

“It was a great day to raise awareness and champion the mental health services within the area so we can all look after out mental health together.”

After the paddle-out, locals in attendance enjoyed a coffee at the Salty Dog Café and group conversations about how the community can empower a more positive and happy future.

The event was part of the Art of the Minds Festival, which runs until October 15.