World Mental Health Day in Bedfordshire

South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (SEPT) is joining forces with partner organisations from around the county to celebrate World Mental Health Day on 9 October 2014 with events planned for Bedford. The aim of the event is to combat stigma and discrimination against mental health, promote mental well-being across our communities and this year we are particularly focusing on arts, exercise and mental well-being.

Bedford Events 9 October 2014

Time: 11.30 – 13.30
Venue: Church Square (Pigeon Square), Bedford Town Centre

Entertainment from:
• Bedford Flash Mob Dance
• Zumba dancers
• Bollywood Dancing

Time: 17.30 – 20.00
Venue: Bedford Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford

The Power of Art in Mental Health – exhibition of art related to Mental Health.

Richard Winter, SEPT’s Executive Director Integrated Services Bedfordshire said:

“These events hope to inform people of the benefits of art and creativity for positive mental health, to dispel myths about mental health problems and show the wealth of talent and potential of those who encounter mental health difficulty and stigma in the wider community owing to misunderstanding.

With 1 in 4 people experiencing mental health problems at some time in their lives, a better understanding amongst the general population is vital in helping people overcome these difficulties.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries:
Dee Hunnie
Communications Manager
SEPT Integrated Health Services Bedfordshire and Luton
Mobile: 07825 863400
Email: dee.hunnie@sept.nhs.uk

Notes to Editor:

About World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health day supported by the United Nations is held annually in October to raise public awareness about mental health issues worldwide. It is observed in more than 100 countries and is an initiative of the world federation for Mental Health. The World Health Organisation which is the UN’s directing and co-ordinating authority for health supports this event.

Mental disorders affect nearly 12% of the world’s population – about 450million or 1 in 4 people around the world will experience a mental illness that would benefit from diagnosis and treatment.

The aim of all of the events listed above is to promote mental wellbeing across our local communities and to combat stigma and discrimination towards people experiencing mental ill health. SEPT work alongside the national Time to Change campaign and the Make a Difference group is the co-ordinating body in partnership with numerous community organisations both statutory and third sector