2010
March
New bipolar publication looking for people willing to share personal stories
Bay of Plenty primary school teacher Georgie Tutt is producing a publication that will share New Zealanders' personal experiences of bipolar affective disorder. Aubrey Quinn (from the Like Minds, Like Mine TV ads) is writing the introduction.
Georgie, who lives with the disorder, says she wants the book to challenge misconceptions about the disorder, reduce discrimination and promote wellness and recovery.
"I feel there's a need for those with bipolar to be inspired by a diverse range of people, in various fields, who are managing, and living fulfulled lifes despite their diagnosis," Georgie says.
A number of people have already responded to the call for contributions, but Georgie is looking for others, from all walks of life, happy to share their stories.
For more information, or to be part of the publication, email Georgie at tuttenbelt "at" xtra.co.nz or ph: (07) 548 0948.
February
Are you passionate about fighting stigma & discrimination?
The Mental Health Foundation and the Regional Consumer Network are hosting a free public forum on countering stigma & discrimination associated with mental illness on Thursday 18 March, 10 am-2.30 pm (lunch included) at Western Springs Garden Hall,956 Great North Road, Western Springs, Auckland.
Aubrey Quinn discusses his experience of being the face of the national Like Minds campaign to counter stigma and discrimination. Find out what you can do to get involved.
January
Have your say in The National Conversation
The National Conversation is a new initiative by the Human Rights Commission to promote and protect equal employment opportunities in New Zealand. The National Conversation is about fairness at work. They want to hear from workers and employers about equal employment opportunities (EEO).
They say they need a new strategy for EEO to overcome barriers at work, to reach rural and provincial New Zealanders, to talk with small and medium businesses and to progress equality for everyone and want to listen to your ideas. You can: post on their blog, complete the online survey, email a submission, read the online diary.
Kristian Lomath's exhibition opens
NZ Mental Health Media Grant recipient, Kristian Lomath, is opening his Seclusion circle series 2 exhibition in Hamilton's ArtsPost gallery today.
Kristian's art installation is a fresh look at his media grants project which toured Rotorua, Tauranga and Auckland late last year.
Kristian - along with guest artists - has created a three-dimensional experience for visitors by combining painting, scuplture, video and audio. They hope that people will walk away with the knowledge that it is possible to live with mental illness, pursue your dreams and be successful - and that the interaction between the project and the public will help break down some of the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness.
ArtsPost: 120 Victoria St, Hamilton, 10am - 4.30pm daily
Exhibition opens: Friday 8 January
Exhibition closes: Monday 1 February
Celebration: Thursday 21 January 5.30pm
Visit our Press Releases page
