Lithgow City Council is collaborating with the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) to run an important mental health initiative and spread a positive mental health message amongst the community this October.

"We are asking the Lithgow community to support the initiative by writing a mental health message on their driveway, bricks or farm gates during October," RAMHP Coordinator, Sonia Cox said.

Mental Health Month is held in October annually, helping to raise awareness for mental health and wellbeing.

This year, Sonia and her colleagues are running #ChalkItUpForMentalHealth, asking community members to get involved by sharing a mental health message on their private property or business, taking a photo and uploading it with the #chalkitupformentalhealth and tag Lithgow City Council and RAMHP on Instagram or Facebook to help us share the message.

Now, more than ever, our regional and rural communities need to support one another and continue to check in.

"During these uncertain times, it's so important for our community to stick together and support one another," Ms Cox said.

"By writing a short message for others to see, we are letting our neighbours know that we are here to support them, while also highlighting the importance of looking after our mental health and wellbeing."

READ MORE:

Research shows that one in five adult Australians experience mental illness each year and is more prevalent in regional areas.

"RAMHP play an integral role within the Lithgow Community through mental health education and linking people to appropriate care.

"This initiative is a great way to get the community involved in supporting one another's mental health," Mayor Ray Thompson said.

If you have any concerns about yourself or a loved one, please contact the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: