World Mental Health Day event welcomes those doing it tough

Melbourne Men’s Shed (MMS) will host a World Mental Health Day lunch event on October 7 ahead of the global day of mental health education, awareness and advocacy against social stigma.

First celebrated in 1992 after being initiated by the World Federation for Mental Health, a global mental health organisation with members and contacts in more than 150 countries, World Mental Health Day takes place on October 10.

The October 7 barbecue lunch will see Pentecost Care and Rapid Relief Team (RRT) combine with the MMS to host more than 150 people at the Pentecost Care carpark at 132 Franklin St in the CBD from 1pm.

The event’s 2024 theme of “Let’s Talk About It” promulgates discussion among a wide array of people and emphasises the significance of open dialogue and communication regarding mental health across various platforms and settings.

MMS president Andrew Stefanetti said that his members wanted to experience the day and the discourse that it would generate among various cohorts around Melbourne.

“We are keen to explore the possibility of our members mingling with those experiencing homelessness or on the verge of it and see what energy this may generate – even if it is just for a day! It is all about trust and connection,” Mr Stefanetti said.

Inspired by community spirit and the gift of giving, the Rapid Relief Team (RRT) serves people with care and compassion in their time of need.

Established in 2013 by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, RRT offers quality catering assistance and tangible support to charities, government and emergency services confronting some of humankind’s greatest challenges. RRT adapts their benevolent support services to meet the need at hand. 

Pentecost’s Care’s Kate Watson is also keen to see the word spread to international students living in the Queen Victoria Market precinct. “There is great need out here,” Ms Watson said.

Former City of Melbourne councillor and philanthropist Beverley Pinder said that this World Mental Health Day would be a day for all “with true community spirit pervading the top end of our city”.

To wrap up the day, ITHEA College is encouraging students, studying the Diploma of Community Services to be on hand to help with receiving patrons and general conversation for spiritual and mental wellbeing.

Anyone in need is welcome to the lunch event.