We know that those who identify as LGBTIQ are more likely to have experienced violence and discrimination, social isolation, drug and alcohol misuse, homelessness, internalised stigma and self harm. However we also know there are those who are living well with their mental health.
This Mental Health Week Shine SA, headspace Woodville, Bfriend and MIFSA are celebrating everyone’s mental health by hosting a Rainbow Wellness Walk. With the theme ‘happy to be me’ the walk will start at the Rainbow Tent at the Festival of Now in Rundle Park.
To be held on Friday 9th October walkers are meeting at 2:30pm for a 3pm start with Adelaide City Councillor Robert Simms launching the walk.
“Due to experiences of discrimination there are higher rates of mental illness within the LGBTIQ community, however there are many who live happy and fulfilling lives,” said Heath Reed of the Mental Illness Fellowship South Australia.
“Often it’s these people that are punching well above their weight contributing a great deal back into community.
It’s a celebration of our achievements, how far we’ve come and to promote wellness, happiness and healthy lives.”
Karen Barnes, a Community Support Worker for the LQBTIQ Project says, “This walk of wellness is to showcase the incredible strength, resilience and sense of humanity, of our beautiful and colourful rainbow of South Australians and their families.
Self-identifying with this culture, my involvement in the event is intended to demonstrate that ‘living well’ with mental health and embracing life is not just a hope but a strong possibility and is cause for celebration!”
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