Sometimes World Mental Health Day seems like a slightly strange idea – as if there were ever a day when mental health wasn’t a significant issue. What we hope that World Mental Health Day provides is an opportunity for people to begin conversations about their mental health, which can then continue for as long as they’re needed.
It’s also an opportunity for organisations like Touchstone to reach new people, who might not yet know about the support that is available for a wide range of mental health issues.
There’s always a lot happening on World Mental Health Day – here’s a small selection:

Monday 10th October – Touchstone Community Development Service will be running an event at the Bangladeshi Centre, Roundhay Road, Leeds – LS8 5AN. The free event runs from 10:30am to 2:30pm and will feature information on mental health and well-being, peer support, a dance workshop, arts and crafts, beauty therapy and more.
To book a place contact Irum irums@touchstonesupport.org.uk

Monday 10th October – Staff from Kirklees Advocacy Service, Peer-led Brokerage Service, Better in Kirklees and WY-FI will be attending a World Mental Health Day event at Huddersfield University. There will also be a stall from Meeting of Minds – the new mental health service users’ forum for Kirklees. 11:30am to 2:30pm at Student Central. Contact studentwellbeing@hud.ac.uk for more information.

Sikh Elders Service will be delivering mental health information sessions for older people, followed by a celebratory meal. Contact sikhelders@touchstonesupport.org.uk

Saturday 8th to Monday 10th October – open studios at Hoot Arts in Huddersfield https://www.hootcreativearts.co.uk/whats-on/open-studio-hoot-creativity-works

Monday 10th October – “Clear” art exhibition at Dewsbury Town Hall https://www.commlinks.co.uk/get-involved/events/clear-art-exhibition-2016/

Leeds City Council are holding events held at each of the mental health hubs. On Monday 10th October at Lovell Park, Wednesday 12th at Vale Circles and Friday 14th at Stocks Hill. Contact roots.leeds@hotmail.com for more info.

The Love Arts Festival in Leeds runs from the 5th to 20th October http://www.loveartsleeds.co.uk/