THE South East Junction will launch the poetry booklet Happiness Is Not A Destination at the Mount Gambier Library tomorrow to coincide with World Mental Health Day.
The booklet was created during poetry sessions held at the mental health activity and resource centre from June to August.
South East Junction coordinator Nel Jans said it was produced to promote mental health and wellbeing.
“Happiness is not something you will find in a certain place, it’s a journey and we find happiness on our path in life,” Ms Jans said.
“It is important we keep our eyes open and find happiness in small things – that’s what this booklet is about.”
Ms Jans said attendees at the winter poetry sessions contributed to the booklet.
“Participants were presented with different topics to write about and different types of poetry – it was an opportunity for them to learn poetry skills and explore their creativity,” she said.
“A lot of people think ‘I can’t write poems’ but they have never tried.
“Topics covered included family, friends, what made them happy – all poets hope to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues.”
Contributor Leigh Bauer said writing poems was a good way to “express the way you feel about things”.
“I got a lot out of the experience and it has uncovered something I thought I had lost,” he said.
“I am now inspired to continue to write poems as a way of expressing myself.”
Country Health SA mental health strategic operations director Umit Agis said the booklet was a fantastic way to raise awareness of mental health in rural and regional communities.
“I congratulate South East Junction for helping to build greater community awareness and understanding of mental health and reduce stigma in the community,” Mr Agis said.
“We are encouraging all South Australians to stop and ask ‘are we looking after our mental health?'”
Happiness Is Not A Destination will be launched at the Mount Gambier Library at 10.30am.
The launch will be followed by an arts play session facilitated by Liz Ferguson.
Everyone is welcome to join in the fun and creativity to improve mental wellbeing.
