"The word 'mentalympian' is a strength-based term created by Keith Mahar to define anyone who voluntarily competes against stigma, prejudice and/or discrimination by disclosing that she or he has personally experienced mental illness."
Mental Health Council of Australia
Mentalympians is a mental health community development initiative to raise awareness of mental health recovery, inspire hope, reduce self-stigma, foster recovery and also connect individuals who are interested in campaigning for mental health reform.
On 10 October 2011, an online social network was officially launched which will be an important part of this project, MentaNet.
As addressed in press release 'Innovation on World Mental Health Day', this social network is a type of 21st century peer support system for any adult interested in mental health.
MentaNet's Terms of Use, including its Privacy Policy, notes that the content that you post on this social network is only available to other registered members, and you are welcome to participate anonymously if you prefer. Alternatively, you have the option to use your name, post links to your website, blog and other social networks sites. It is entirely your choice.
As addressed by both a leading researcher on stigma and the President of the World Federation for Mental Health, Mentalympians has potential to help individuals with mental health problems.
Mentalympians is a dream of mine; one that emerged through a number of life changes that I experienced during my own mental health recovery process (ABC):(Canberra Times).
I was a social activist at the time that I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and peer support played an important role in my recovery. And I still am a social activist.
If we share the same dream of a better world for people with mental health issues and their families, please sign up to MentaNet and let's connect online.
