"Raising Mental Health Voices: Showcasing Wellbeing”

Message from Julie Millard AM, Board Director World Federation for Mental Health.

October 9, 2025

Dear Colleagues & Friends

The following exciting information has been graciously provided by Sharon Grocott CEO and the team at WayAhead:

Raising Mental Health Voices: Showcasing Wellbeing video series

As we approach a pivotal moment in global mental health advocacy, Wayahead is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking initiative that amplifies the diverse tapestry of human experience and resilience. In a powerful partnership with the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH), we proudly present “Raising Mental Health Voices: Showcasing Wellbeing” – a compelling video series designed to illuminate, educate, and inspire.

The “Raising Mental Health Voices: Showcasing Wellbeing” video series will go live on 10th October 2025 – World Mental Health Day. This is your exclusive invitation to connect with these profound stories and share them widely.

The series is not just a collection of videos; it is a vibrant testament to the strength of the human spirit, a beacon of hope, and a crucial step in dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health.

A Journey Through Lived Experiences: "Raising Mental Health Voices"

Imagine a platform where authentic stories of courage, vulnerability, and triumph are shared, echoing across communities and cultures. That is precisely what "Raising Mental Health Voices" delivers. This unique video series collates powerful narratives from individuals and organisations across Australia and the Pacific region, offering a rich mosaic of lived experiences. We extend our deepest gratitude to Julie Millard AM, WFMH Board Director, whose invaluable partnership and dedication have been instrumental in bringing this vital series to fruition. Her commitment to showcasing diverse and authentic lived experiences has truly shaped the heart of "Raising Mental Health Voices."

Hosted on the official Wayahead YouTube channel from 10th October this series delves into:

• Personal Journeys: Intimate accounts of navigating mental health challenges and discovering pathways to wellbeing.
• Youth and Carer Experiences: Essential perspectives from younger generations and families, carers and kinship groups who support others.
• Rich Cultural Perspectives: Featuring invaluable voices from Aboriginal peoples and multicultural communities, ensuring a truly inclusive dialogue. The series makes a strong commitment to showcasing diverse cultural viewpoints.
• Diverse Experiences: Rural communities, LGBTIQA+ communities, workplaces, Veterans, and new parents’ stories are shared. Stories of domestic violence, suicide prevention, loneliness and trauma recognise that mental health needs vary across diverse populations and communities.
• Reducing Stigma: Many videos are explicitly designed to challenge stigma and encourage open conversation.
• Recovery, Resilience, and Hope: A central message throughout the series is the potential for recovery and the cultivation of resilience.
• Innovative Approaches to Wellbeing: Beyond traditional clinical approaches, the series highlights creative and community-based interventions including sport and physical activity, arts and music, mindfulness and self-care, and peer support.
• Aligning with Catastrophes, Emergencies and Climate Change: Several videos address community resilience during and after natural disasters and climate change.

Access the series here from 10th October: WayAhead – Mental Health Association – YouTube

We urge everyone to not only watch this powerful series but to become active champions. Share these videos with your networks, spark conversations, and reinforce the message that mental health care is fundamental, accessible, and equitable for all. Together, we can amplify people’s voices, foster a culture of compassion, and ensure that mental health remains a priority, not just on World Mental Health Day, but every single day.