Council libraries raising awareness about mental illness

Published on 11 October 2017

The Mildura Rural City Council Library Service and Mildura Mental Health Services have joined together to support people suffering from mental illness as part of Mental Health Week.

During the coming two weeks, Council’s Merbein, Mildura and Red Cliffs libraries will host three ‘storytime’ sessions for pre-schoolers and their families, following a mental health theme.

Mildura Library will also feature a special display to raise awareness and provide information about mental health, including books, information sheets, flyers and information about Mallee Family Care’s Community Mental Health Support Service.

Councillor for Arts and Culture Jason Modica said libraries could serve a valuable role in helping to not only raise awareness about mental health, but support those with mental illness.

“Mental illness affects many people in our community, with studies showing that one in five people will experience a mental health problem in their lifetime,” Cr Modica said.

“By joining with Mildura Mental Health Services and their Families Where a Parent Has a Mental Illness (FAPMI) program, our libraries can serve as a fantastic resource for information about mental illness, as well as raising awareness during events like Mental Health Week.”

This month’s three ‘storytime’ sessions for pre-schoolers and their families will be at the following locations and times:

Mildura Library

Wednesday, 11 October

10.15am – 11am

Merbein Library

Tuesday, 17 October

10.15am – 11am

Red Cliffs Library

Friday, 20 October

10.15am – 11am

Cr Modica encouraged parents of pre-schoolers to take advantage of the upcoming ‘storytime’ sessions.

“Research shows that one fifth of Australian children live in families where mum or dad has a mental illness, and that it doesn’t just affect the person experiencing it – it can impact on families,” he said.

“Many people will not access the help and support they need because of the stigma that surrounds mental illness.

“It is important to shine a light on this issue and encourage conversations in our community – between families, friends, neighbours, all members of our community – to raise awareness about good mental health and reduce the impact of mental illness on families.”

For more information contact Mildura Rural City Council Library Service’s Debra Orsini on (03) 5018 8350.

Media enquiries 
Ben Piscioneri
p) (03) 5018 8689 
e) ben.piscioneri@mildura.vic.gov.au