YMCA NSW is delighted to be launching our Brightside mental health program at both Gungahlin Leisure Centre and Lakeside Leisure Centre in January.
YMCA NSW is now taking referrals for the 60 day program that gives people experiencing mental health issues the opportunity to enhance their physical health, wellbeing and social engagement.
One in five people in Australia experience mental health issues each year and almost half (45 per cent) of the population will experience a mental health illness at some stage in their life[1].
Mental health is also the top national concern for young people, including managing stress and anxiety, body image and depression[2].
YMCA NSW program coordinator Debbie Court says it’s great to be able to extend this program south and offer this program in the ACT.
“The Brightside program is a community-focused fitness and wellbeing program specifically designed to help those experiencing mental health issues such as depression and anxiety,” Debbie said.
“Participants spend time with fitness professionals and participate in different exercise classes, with an added focus on positive nutrition.”
“In addition to being a fantastic exercise program it provides a great support network that helps facilitate positive mental health, which helps make a positive impact on their recovery journey.”
ACT fitness co-coordinator, Steve Naughton says: “I believe introducing the Brightside into the Canberra region will help bring the community closer together and help brighten peoples’ lives and help those who would benefit from exercise and support.”
“Exercise has numerous benefits, but what makes this program different is the one on one time with a trainer and the social integration.”
For more about YMCA NSW Brightside program, check out the website or drop in to your local centre. https://www.ymcansw.org.au/community-services/mental-health/
[1] Source - www.blackdoginstitute.org.au
[2] Source - www.missionaustralia.com.au/news-blog/news-media/youth-survey-report-2017
