Keeping health in mind with the Black Dog Institute

One in seven Australians will experience depression in their lifetime, according to the Black Dog Institute.

Dale Skinner from the Black Dog Institute will present a free session about mental health at Felltimber Community Centre on Monday, November 18 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

The session will provide general information for those interested in mental health, or those who wish to support others with their mental health.

Australian youth (18 to 24 years old) have the highest prevalence of mental illness than any other age group.

An Australian Institute of Health and Welfare study from 2014 found about 54 per cent of people with mental illness do not access any treatment.

This is worsened by delayed treatment due to serious problems in detection and accurate diagnosis.

Mr Skinner was just 10 years old when he started experiencing mental health problems.

Originally diagnosed with depression in his early 20s, it was not until the age of 28 that he was correctly diagnosed with bipolar type 2 disorder.

The November 18 event will be a formal presentation where Mr Skinner will share personal stories about his mental health challenges, with a chance for the general public to ask questions at the end.

A previous session, which was well attended, was held on October 21 at the centre where the presentation focused on how parents could support their children.

Bookings for this event are essential, phone the Felltimber Community Centre on (02) 6043 4550.

Cost is free.