‘Lift the Lid on Mental Illness’ is a new national mental health fundraising and awareness initiative of Australian Rotary Health.

Rotary clubs and community groups are encouraged to hold a Hat Day this month to support the cause.

The Rotary Club of Cessnock is getting behind the campaign, and will hold its Hat Day fundraising barbecue at Bunnings Warehouse Cessnock on October 13.

All funds will go to Australian Rotary Health to help fund research that will help those Australians affected by depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and many other illnesses.

District 9670 Governor, Helen Ryan, recognised the importance of Rotarians contributing significant time and effort to lifting the lid on mental illnesses.

“The research shows that one in five people experience a mental illness each year. We need to ensure we can continue to fund programs and projects so that will reduce this statistic and give people hope,” Mrs Ryan said.

“Rotarians recognise the importance of supporting those in the community who suffer a mental illness.

We want a live in a society where people don’t feel ashamed that they suffer from a mental illness.”

Mrs Ryan said Hat Day provides an opportunity for Rotarians and members of the community open up the discussion on mental health.

“I am encouraging businesses and workplaces in Cessnock, Kurri Kurri and Maitland to host a ‘Hat Day’ event,” she said.

To make a donation or register a ‘Hat Day’ event please visit www.hatday.com.au.