During Mental Health Month this October, YMCA centres across NSW and the ACT will give $10 from every new member who joins through a special offer to its Brightside program, which supports people with a mental illness to improve their physical and mental wellbeing in a mainstream, community setting.
The ‘10 Days for $10’ offer gives people access to all health and fitness facilities at a YMCA for a period of 10 days for only $10.
YMCA NSW’s Brightside is a unique program that sees participants work on their mental health through a combination of exercise, enhanced social interaction and special one-on-one support from YMCA staff. Participants are able to use Y facilities for free for 60 days and are given a customised program to help with their specific needs.
Importantly, the program is run in gyms – in a mainstream, community setting – which helps to remove the stigma of mental illness and places participants in a supportive social environment.
YMCA NSW CEO Leisa Hart said: “The Y is about connecting people to their communities to live happier, healthier lives. Our wonderful Brightside program supports people with a mental illness all year round, and we are delighted that this Mental Health Month more funds will be directed towards this important service.
“I encourage everyone to head to your local Y and take advantage of ‘10 Days for $10’ today. Not only will you feel good through exercise, you will feel great knowing you are helping others to improve their mental health and wellbeing.”
To sign up for ’10 Days for $10’ at your local Y or for more information about Brightside, visit www.ymcansw.org.au, drop into your centre or give them a call.
YMCA’s Brightside Program
The YMCA NSW Brightside program offers opportunities for people with a mental illness to improve their physical, social and mental health and wellbeing. The program offers free and unlimited access to a Y facility for 60 days, as well as a customised exercise program and one-on-one support.
Brightside statistics:
* More females than males are taking part in Brightside.
* In the last 12 months, the average age of participants has dropped significantly – from 35 to 28.
* More people in the 14-23 age bracket are doing Brightside than in previous years.
