Move for mental health

Two free events—including skateboarding, a barbecue and crocheting—will encourage conversations and social connection next Thursday and Friday, 8–9 September. 

Aligning with R U OK? Day—a national day of action when Australians are reminded to start meaningful conversations with those who might be struggling—the free events offer participants the chance to have fun, meet new mates and have a meal in a welcoming setting. 

The Busy Hands, Happy Minds event will take place at Woodcroft Morphett Vale Neighbourhood Centre from 11am to 2pm on Thursday 8 September, were you can keep your hands busy, improve your mental health and do something good for the community. 

Participants can have a cuppa, knit or crochet a square to be incorporated into blankets for people doing it tough, enjoy a BBQ, play puzzles and Lego, and do some colouring-in. 

The blanket project is part of the Real Time Heart-based social enterprise, which supports a global mission to bring caring to all people on the planet. 

For 8-25-year olds a free Flip’n it Fridays skate/ride/scoot session will be held at the Niipu-niipu Wama (Morton Park) skate park in Christie Downs from 4–6pm on Friday 9 September, including music and food. 

The casual jam session, held in the leadup to the MV2 Cup and Southern Rumble skateboarding events, encourages participants to get out and have a good time with friends, without the pressure of competition. 

Organisers, the City of Onkaparinga Youth team, are hoping to kickflip the stigma around mental health, while encouraging social connection, conversation and physical activity.