ARHRF MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS FORUMS

Rotary clubs throughout Australia are being invited to conduct community forums in as many communities as possible. The community forums are organised by Rotary Clubs as part of their contribution to community service, and especially deal with the public’s awareness of mental illness issues. The aims of the community forum project are:

- to help de-stigmatise mental illness
- to bring the community in contact with mental health services and support groups
- to clear myths and misunderstandings surrounding mental illness
- to raise awareness of the need for early recognition and treatment of mental illness
- to offer hope and understanding to consumers and carers
- to form ongoing partnerships between Rotary Clubs, mental health services, support groups. local
government and the community.

Rotary Clubs throughout Australia are being encouraged to organise community forums, with support from their local government and mental health services. The ARHRF can assist Rotary Clubs with planning, resources and some financial support up to the value of $1,000.

A Mental Health & Depression Community Forum Guideline Manual has been designed to assist Rotary clubs and districts to successfully plan and conduct Community Forums.

For more information contact:
Cheryl Deguara
ARHRF Programs Co-ordinator
Email: cheryldeguara@arhrf.org.au
Australian Rotary Health Research Fund
PO Box 779
Parramatta NSW 2124
Ph: (02) 8837 1900
Fax: (02) 9635 5042
Email: arhrf@arhrf.org.au