'Wear it Blue' is a campaign organised by Federation Youth Council encouraging everyone to wear blue for mental health on Friday, October 3. The campaign will mark the beginning of Mental Health Month in NSW.
Federation Youth Council Mayor Max Sampson said the Council is wanting everyone to get involved from work places, businesses to community groups.
"Some of us are just painting our nails blue. If you were feeling brave you could rock the blue eyeshadow, or dye your whole hair blue! It doesn't matter if you just don blue socks. Wear blue any way that works for you," Max said.
The Youth Councillors decided to do this initiative in hope of raising awareness and to reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues faced by people in the Federation Council area.
"We really want to promote how important it is for all people to have open and meaningful conversations about well-being with their friends, family or networks," said Max.
"In particular it is imperative that young people feel confident to have meaningful conversation with someone they trust about life's ups and downs."
The Federation Youth Council will be hosting a pop-up event in Memorial Plaza in Corowa on Friday, October 3, with information on local and online resources for people to take.
"Pop over and say hi," said Max.
"We've got heaps of giveaways, and you don't even have to wear blue. We just want to spread some kindness, share information and make others feel special."
What can you do?
- On Friday, October 3 wear blue as a symbol of support and solidarity for people experiencing mental health issues.
- Post a picture on social media and tag #Iamfederation.
- Visit the Youth Council at their pop up in the Memorial Plaza in Sanger Street in Corowa.
- Start a conversation with someone in your life about mental health.
Federation Council Mayor Cheryl Cook, who is also the Councillor delegate on the Federation Youth Council praised the initiative of the Federation Youth Council to highlight mental health support.
"As a community we all need to be aware of how to support people experiencing mental health challenges," said Mayor Cook.
"Mental Health Month is also a great time for all of us to take a moment to prioritise ourselves and make an 'investment' of time in our own mental health and wellbeing."
The Federation Youth Council is made up of a group of passionate young people aged between 12 and 25 years old who act as the voice for young people within the Federation Council Local Government Area, advocating for the needs, wants and concerns of young people living, studying and working in our area.
If you are interested in doing projects such as Wear it Blue for Mental Health Council consider joining the Youth Council. Nominations forms are available on Council's website
