The overwhelming response to a community health forum on young people and anxiety has highlighted the urgent need for more opportunities to come together to discuss mental health, according to local MP Anoulack Chanthivong – Member for Macquarie Fields.

More than 150 people attended the Mental Health Matters forum at the Greg Percival Community Centre in Ingleburn on Tuesday 25 July, which was facilitated by Mr Chanthivong in partnership with local mental health advocate Sandra McDonald and One Door Mental Health.

“One of the key messages to come out of the forum is that we need to continue the conversation on mental health,” Mr Chanthivong said.

“There also needs to be more opportunities for the community to connect with local health providers and learn what support is available, for both people with mental illness, their carers, friends and family.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in making the forum a huge success, and also thank everyone who came along on the night to learn more about anxiety, connect with local health providers or share their own personal experiences.”

Mr Chanthivong said the forum had inspired him to continue to advocate for greater mental health awareness and improved services.

“The journey doesn’t end here. There is still much work to be done to break down the stigma often associated with mental health and assist people living with mental illness to live life to their full potential.

“Let’s keep on talking and bring mental health out of the shadows and into the light because mental health matters,” Mr Chanthivong said.