Media Release: Mental Health Week begins across Tasmania

Media Release

MHCT Brings Together Leaders to Shape Digital Mental Health

Mental Health Week begins this weekend across Tasmania, bringing communities together to promote wellbeing, build understanding of mental health, and challenge stigma around mental illness.

Coordinated by the Mental Health Council of Tasmania and supported by the Tasmanian Government, Mental Health Week will run from 3-11 October, with dozens of public events taking place across the state.

This year’s theme, Appreciate the little things, encourages Tasmanians to reflect on the everyday actions, activities and connections that support mental health and wellbeing. The theme has been used since 2024 and returns for its third and final year in 2026.

Mental Health Council of Tasmania CEO Dan Vautin said the theme provides a timely reminder that positive mental health is shaped by more than services and treatment alone.

“Mental health is something we all have, and like physical health, there are things we can do every day to help support and strengthen it,” Mr Vautin said.

“The little things might look different for each of us. It could be spending time with people we care about, getting outdoors, taking part in our community, enjoying a creative hobby, or simply making time to pause and recharge.”

“While these moments might seem small, they can play an important role in helping us maintain our wellbeing, stay connected and build resilience over time.”

Mental Health Week highlights the importance of prevention and early intervention by encouraging people to think about mental health before they reach a point of crisis. It also aims to increase understanding of mental illness and reduce stigma through awareness, education and respectful conversations.

Throughout the week, communities across Tasmania will host a diverse range of activities including community gatherings, creative events, workshops, sporting activities, cultural experiences, learning opportunities and wellbeing-focused programs.

“One of the strengths of Mental Health Week is that it is driven by communities,” Mr Vautin said.

“Each year we see individuals, community groups, schools, workplaces and organisations bring the theme to life in their own way. Together, these events help create opportunities for connection, participation and positive conversations about mental health.”

Tasmanians are encouraged to explore the statewide program and find an event near them.

To view the Mental Health Week program, visit www.mhct.org/mhw.