World Mental Health Day

Did you know participating in regular physical activity can increase your self-esteem and can reduce stress and anxiety? It also plays a role in preventing the development of mental health problems and in improving the quality of life of people experiencing mental health problems.

On this World Mental Health Day, ACDP organised an awareness event on Saturday 8^th October to support physical and mental health and well-being for all. The program was attended by 100 youth and adults from the three electorates in the Nation’s Capital and was held at the Taurama Aquatic Center from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

One lasting takeaway from our Keynote Speaker, Dr Uma Ambi, OBE, from the Directorate for Social Change and Mental Health Services, was “frequent physical exercises and positive actions is the way to prevent overall mental and physical health.”

He also reminded all that “ACDP fitness classes and training are made free and available to all citizens of Port Moresby, so be sure to check them out and attend for your mental well-being”.

Besides Dr Ambi inspiring interactive talk, attendees were pleasantly surprised with a screening of the movie “Inside Out” an animated film about the emotions inside 11-year- old Riley’s head – Joy, Sadness, Fear, Disgust and Anger – and how they work together to help her deal with her daily life challenges and obstacles.

Participants also participated in a stress release and overall relaxation exercise, breathing exercises, and gentle stretches soothed by calming live music.