WA film premiere launches Mental Health Week

• Mental Health Week runs from October 6-13

• Premiere of The Sunnyboy kicks off Mental Health Week in WA

Mental Health Week has been launched with the Western Australian premiere of The Sunnyboy.

The documentary follows the journey of '80s rock star, Jeremy Oxley, lead singer of Australian band, the Sunnyboys.

The film depicts his rise to fame and subsequent withdrawal from the music scene, as he battles with schizophrenia.

Mental Health Minister Helen Morton launched Mental Health Week today, marking the beginning of a schedule of events to promote emotional and mental wellbeing, and celebrate the commitment of people working in the mental health sector.

Mrs Morton said Mental Health Week runs from October 6-13, with the theme Celebrate Connect Grow.

"Mental Health Week aims to engage communities across the State, encouraging them to work together and support those with mental health problems so they can remain in their local communities and live meaningful lives," she said.

"Events like this bring the community together to promote positive mental health and raise awareness of the experiences and issues that people with mental illness or mental health problems face on a daily basis.

"The film, The Sunnyboy, will play an important role in Mental Health Week because it reinforces the importance of promoting social and emotional wellbeing and the need to reduce stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness."

The Minister said Mental Health Week was co-ordinated by the Mental Health Commission in partnership with the Western Australian Association for Mental Health.

"The week is also a chance to recognise the central role of family, friends and carers in supporting loved ones who are experiencing mental health problems and to celebrate the outstanding contribution of the State's mental health sector, spanning public, private and community organisations," she said.

Other events taking place during Mental Health Week include:

The Good Outcomes Awards, Tuesday, October 8:  The awards celebrate excellent work in the mental health sector

Turn Blue 4 A Day, Thursday, October 10:  An outdoor, family event in the Murray Street Mall to mark World Mental Health Day. This event will feature Mental Health Week Ambassador and ex-ABC Sports commentator Glenn Mitchell, the voices of the 'Spirit of the Streets' choir, and there will be the opportunity to take part in some Laughter Well Being Yoga

The Ball of Hope, Saturday, October 12:  Held in Esperance to mark the end of Mental Health Week.  Attended by special guest, Mental Health Week Ambassador and ex-Dockers footballer, Heath Black.

      Fact File

• One in five adult Australians will experience mental illness each year and almost half the population will experience mental health problems at least once in their lifetime

• For more information on the range of activities and events running during Mental Health Week, visit http://www.waamh.org.au

Minister's office - 6552 6900