A FREE event at the Mount Gambier Hotel tonight will aim to overcome stigma associated with mental illness.
Not-for-profit organisation I Am Worthmore will kick-off a national tour with a free presentation by founder Luke McLean, who will equip attendees with strategies to improve their mental health.
Mr McLean spoke to The Border Watch ahead of the tour, which will deliver free public events in more than 50 towns and cities across Australia.
“I battled a gambling addiction, depression, anxiety and panic attacks for a large part of my life,” Mr McLean said.
“I was never educated about mental health and I felt like it was a taboo subject so I kept spiralling and getting worse – I felt like I was worthless.
“I had to seek professional help and my struggles inspired me to create a program to educate people on the strategies you can implement into daily life to improve your mental health.”
The one hour presentation will focus on creating a positive mindset, while attendees will assess their own mental health.
“I want to visit as many towns and cities as possible and Mount Gambier is the first stop on the tour,” Mr McLean said.
“We started out with 54 towns locked in and a number of places have reached out since.
“I will be delivering these free public events as well as presentations for businesses.”
While the tour will be self-funded, Mr McLean said donations would allow him to expand the program.
The I Am Worthmore presentation will be held from 6pm to 7pm at the Mount Gambier Hotel.
Visit www.eventbrite.com.au to register for the free event.
