‘Its Ok 2 B U’ – A Celebration Of Mental Health Awareness For Children & Young People
Hawke’s Bay District Health Board’s (HBDHB) Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service is hosting a celebration of
mental health awareness, on Friday 14 November at Frimley Park in Hastings. The event, which runs from 1:30 pm to 3:30
pm aims to raise awareness of the services provided for children and adolescents in Hawke’s Bay, and encourage young
people to be happy with who they are, and remind them that it’s OK to ask for help.
Organiser, Jonine Naughton, a counsellor with HBDHB’s the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, says the afternoon
is being supported by the Yellow Ribbon organisation who focus on preventing youth suicide. We have invited all Hawke’s
Bay schools to attend, along with all providers of mental health, addiction and support services for children and
adolescents in Hawke’s Bay.
“We’re encouraging everyone to dress up in fancy dress, with spot prizes throughout the afternoon. One of the highlights
will be a mass release of helium balloons – each balloon will have a tag with a message from students about their needs
and knowledge about mental health issues.
“Hot 93 will be there providing music and there’ll be free food and drinks, fun games and activities, as well an
information stands from a range of organisations who provide services to young people,” Jonine Naughton said.
If anyone wants more information about the day, they can contact Jonine on (06) 878 8109 ext. 5806