Mental Health
Overview
The Mental Health Community and Cultural Development Project was funded by Western Sydney Area Assistance Scheme from October 2003 to September 2007.
Some of the broad aims of the project included: increase the
capacity of community organisations and government agencies in
responding to people who are living with or recovering from mental
health related disorders; support the ongoing development and
opportunities for artistic and cultural development for consumers; and
work with carers and other family members impacted by mental health
disorders.
Since the Mental Health project ended the Blue Mountains RAMHI
(Raising Awareness of Mental Health Issues)
interagency is now convened by Mountains Youth Services Team (MYST)
which meets bi-monthly to promote, support, inform, educate and
share knowledge, skills and issues which are relevant to our community.
The RAMHI group is a forum representing consumers and carers and
representatives from over 30 services and organisations working in the
Blue Mountains.
The Blue Fringe Arts committee continues to hold two annual events in conjunction with Schizophrenia Awareness Week in May and Mental Health Week in October. Both of these events create many opportunities for committee volunteer members to work collaboratively with other services and with the community to explore the issues and to raise awareness of mental illness and to celebrate the creative talents of people living with or recovering from mental illness in the Blue Mountains.