Issue 9

For this issue we wanted to discuss mental health. So we asked a few friendly locals to share their stories around mental health with us. Mental health is our emotional and psychological well-being. It helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make decisions. Research has shown that good mental health is associated with increased creativity, productivity and positive social relationships. In contrast, mental health conditions can cause distress and impact on day-to-day functioning. Having social connections, positive relationships and being part of a community are vital to maintaining good mental health. If you or someone you know is affected by a mental health issue, support from friends, family and health professionals plays a significant role in the recovery process. You can make a big difference to people in your community through small gestures, like listening, keeping in touch and showing you care.