When you think of mental health it's likely that a list of mental illnesses spring to mind, such as anxiety and depression.  Efforts to raise awareness of the importance of looking after your mental health mean most of us are aware of common mental disorders.  And the importance of keeping an eye out for others, as quite often a conversation as simple as asking a friend, co-worker, neighbour or stranger if they're ok can save a life.

There's no doubt that looking out for mental illness is of the upmost importance for keeping a safe and healthy community.  And while you may not be experiencing a mental illness, does that mean you're mentally well, or as mentally well as you could be?  

Research has found there's more to being mentally well than simply the absence of mental illness.  At the other end of the spectrum lies the epitome of mental health - flourishing.  And it turns out there's a lot we can do to foster our mental wellbeing, and to flourish.  Connecting with others, doing enjoyable activities, trying new things and taking care of yourself by being active, eating well and getting enough sleep are all ways to improve mental wellbeing. 

But there's many more.  Check out the Queensland Mental Health Week 100 ways in 100 days campaign for more ideas for creating a positive headspace, and start your journey to discovering your flourishing self. 

NEW FREE Healthy Habits
 

Come along to the FREE Healthy Habits launch event on Friday 4 November (9:30am, Seminar Rooms, Toowoomba City Library) to find out more about this exciting new initiative:

Limited spots available!  To book call 131 872 or online www.healthyhabitstrc.eventbrite.com.au.  

If you are unavailable to attend the launch event, but would like to register your interest in being a Healthy Habits course participant, contact Council 131 872 or email change@tr.qld.gov.au.  

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Community Garden Open Day

Head down to the Toowoomba Community Organic Garden Open Day on Wednesday 26 October, 9:30am to 11:30am and get your hands dirty in the communal gardening area while learning about organic gardening, permaculture, composting, worm farming, growing your own fruit and vegetables, plus much more. 

For more information please visit the Toowoomba community organic garden website or Facebook page.

Bold Adventures

Come on an adventure! Bold Adventures is an exciting way to explore our region’s parks – for young, old and in-between. 

Register now by visiting http://yoursay.tr.qld.gov.au/boldadventures. 

The first adventure kicks off on 26 Nov!

Happy & Healthy Ageing Event

What can you do to make your later years happier and healthier?  Come along to a FREE seminar by Dr Greg Hinrichsen Monday 24 October, 9am to 11am (morning tea included) at St Bart's Anglican Church (103 Stenner St, Toowoomba) to explore ways to improve physical and emotional well-being as we age. 

To book or find out more about the Happy & Healthy Ageing Event click here

Youth Connect Skateboarding Workshops & Competitions

Get together with friends and join a skateboarding workshop!  Workshops are being held across the region for young people of all skill levels.  Workshops will finish with a mini comp encouraging participants to show off their skills. 

The next workshops will be held on 6 and 13 November at the Yarraman Skate Park, with the mini comp held on 19 November.

For more information call 131 872 or visit Facebook/YouthConnectTRC.  

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Recipe of the Month - Roasted sweet potato, lentil and broccoli salad
 

Preparation 30 minutes, serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1 kilogram sweet potato (peeled, cut into 2cm dice)
• 350 gram broccoli (cut into florets)
• 2 tins brown lentils (rinsed)
• 1/2 cup low-fat natural yoghurt
• 1 tablespoon tahini