Western NSW Local Health District [WNSLWHD] leaders have joined a national movement to promote the importance of expanding conversation and support around mental health.
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The WNSWLHD has put together a team of 10 to participate in headspace's Push-Up Challenge, with each member required to do 3046 push-ups over 21 days.
"By taking part in this challenge we are raising the profile of mental health and continuing to break down the stigma around it," WNSWLHD director of mental health, drug and alcohol Jason Crisp said
"People living with mental illness, particularly those with severe mental illness, are more at risk of experiencing a range of adverse health outcomes and have a lower average life expectancy than the general population."
Each day, the number of push-ups represents a statistic of fact in relation to mental health, from the recommended number of weekly exercise minutes required for a healthy wellbeing to suicide rates among certain groups.
"I am proud of our WNSWLHD Warriors Team and all the other staff members in other teams who are taking part in this challenge as it's for a worthwhile cause," WNSWLHD chief executive officer Scott McLachlan said.
"I find it really inspiring when I see staff stepping up outside their job descriptions to continue to help make a difference for people in our region."
If you or someone you know is struggling, you can contact lifeline on 13 11 14, headspace, the WNSWLHD website, or in an emergency call 000.