Smiling Mind has launched a new brand and mission, “Lifelong Mental Fitness,” aiming to address Australia’s mental health crisis and challenge associated stigma. The initiative seeks to transform perceptions by promoting a proactive approach to mental wellness.
“Our research indicates that to resolve Australia’s mental health crisis, we must alter how we think, speak, and feel about mental health,” said Smiling Mind CEO Sarah La Roche. “We need to foster a positive, proactive attitude toward mental health.”
A survey of 900 Australians, including 400 aged 5-18, revealed persistent negativity and stigma surrounding the term ‘mental health,’ with many confusing it with ‘mental illness.’ La Roche emphasized the importance of clear, positive communication in driving generational change.
The new brand and app are based on the Smiling Mind Mental Fitness Model, which focuses on developing mental wellbeing skills from childhood through lifelong practice. La Roche highlighted the brand’s commitment to accessibility and diversity.
“We want to teach people to ‘exercise’ their minds as they do their bodies,” La Roche said. “By integrating mental fitness into early education, we aim to equip children with skills to thrive and prevent mental ill-health.”
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