People of all ages can experience mental illness, and older adults are particularly at risk of developing a mental illness (such as depression or anxiety) due to their experience of grief, social isolation and physical illness. According to mental health advocacy organisation Beyond Blue, the rate of depression among people living in residential aged care is thought to be as high as 35%!
Unfortunately, older adults are less likely to talk about their mental health, and less likely to seek help for these treatable diseases. For Mental Health Month this October, we want to change that.
Azure Beach Library is hosting a Human Library event to start meaningful conversations about ageing and mental illness. Choose from a range of human 'books' and connect with a stranger as they open up to you about their experience of mental illness in a relaxed conversation. Their stories are likely to surprise you, and challenge your perceptions of mental illness.
"if you believe in me, I'll believe in you."
~ Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland
Through conversation and sharing experiences, we can build understanding and empathy and reduce the stigma attached to mental illness. Register now to be part of our exciting, free event.
a Human Library event
10am, 18 October 2023
Azure Beach Public Library Courtyard
Free entry, tea & coffee provided
or in person at your library.
by Madeleine H.
Image: Mental Health Stock Photo by Kevin Simmons, via Flikr (licence information: Creative Commons)
