By Hollie Harris
If you are over 55 and have been wanting to improve your mental health and wellbeing then Sunshine Coast Council’s free Healthy Sunshine Coast Seniors Mental Health Program could be for you.
The 16-week program will start on Monday 3 July at Community Focus Maroochydore, from 10am to noon. The sessions will include a light lunch allowing participants to socialise and make connections with each other.
Community Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said in 2016 council launched Healthy Sunshine Coast, a health and wellbeing initiative which had proved extremely popular in the community and council was once again shining the spotlight on our seniors.
“I am pleased to announce another round of the Healthy Sunshine Coast Seniors, Mental Health and Wellbeing Program will again be delivered in partnership with Community Focus and the Queensland Mental Health Commission,” Cr McKay said.
“This program was specifically tailored for over-55s providing an opportunity for 30 participants to acknowledge and reflect upon their mental health, taking action to improve their wellbeing, while giving participants the tools to participate fully in community life.
“Good mental health provides a sense of wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem and it allows us to fully enjoy and appreciate other people, day-to-day life and our environment.
“When we are mentally healthy we can form positive relationships, use our abilities to reach our potential and deal with life’s challenges.”
The Healthy Sunshine Coast Seniors Mental Health and Wellbeing Program will be delivered in two stages:
* Stage one will assist seniors set goals to improve their physical health. Participants will gain a better understanding of how important a good diet and regular exercise is to our mental health. This will be followed by an experiential session connecting participants with existing community-based activity programs.
* The second stage will see participants supported by a Peer Support Worker who will continue to work on cognitive and physical tools to improve participants’ mental wellbeing.
Bookings for these sessions are essential. Bookings can be made by contacting Community Focus on 5479 3110.
