Support mental health awareness in Delmore Gardens

In light of Suicide Prevention Month, Youth Breaking Barriers is organising a Suicide Prevention and Empowerment Day on 28 September in Delmore Gardens.

This event is a crucial step toward addressing the growing mental health challenges in our community, particularly among the youth. Over the years, we have seen the devastating impact of suicide in our area, and it’s time to act.

Event organiser Terry-Ann Diergaardt emphasised the initiative’s importance, “Mental health is a conversation we barely have in our communities. There are still many stereotypes around mental health, and this event will educate the youth who need it the most and present alternative outlets on how they can deal with it.

“I hope to educate our children on the vital need for mental health awareness. Sadly, we have had instances in our community where young people have taken their lives over the years, and it is something we cannot ignore.”

The event aims to empower young people with the tools they need to recognise mental health challenges, understand their triggers, and find positive outlets for dealing with emotions.

This event will educate over 300 children on mental health awareness, focusing on anxiety, depression and coping mechanisms.

Experts will provide guidance while the children learn the power of sports and the arts in maintaining mental well-being.

By engaging them in soccer and netball tournaments and live performances by dancers, singers, painters, crafters and photographers, they hope to show the youngsters that there are healthy and productive ways to express their emotions and cope with life’s challenges.

Local bikers have also been invited to share their stories of overcoming the struggles of growing up in underprivileged homes, demonstrating that no matter how hard life might seem, there is always hope and support available.

To ensure the event’s success, Diergaardt is reaching out to generous individuals and organisations who believe in the importance of mental health awareness and community empowerment.

Your contribution will have a lasting impact on the lives of these children by helping them explore healthy outlets, connect with their community and learn valuable tools for managing their mental health.

If you want to donate or sponsor this event, call 068 216 2700.

Also Read: Boost your mental health with exercise