Mental Health Month 2025: Events and Resources
By Peter Walker
October is Mental Health Month in Australia - a time when we’re encouraged to pause and pay attention to mental health, both our own and that of those around us.
As a psychologist, I always appreciate initiatives that shine a light on mental health. But my hope is that the conversation doesn’t end when the month does. Checking in, reaching out, and learning how to support each other are habits worth building all year round.
If you’d like to get involved this October, there are plenty of community events, fundraisers and learning opportunities - many of them free and accessible from anywhere. Below, we’ve curated a list of local and national initiatives worth exploring.
One Foot Forward – Black Dog Institute
When: Throughout October 2025
About: Join this virtual walk or run fundraiser hosted by the Black Dog Institute. You can take part anywhere in Australia - solo or in a team - to raise awareness and funds for mental health research.
Get involved: Register online, choose your distance, and start logging your kilometres. More info: https://www.onefootforward.org.au
Sydney Wellness Walk
When: Sunday, 12 October 2025
About: Take part in a community walk through Sydney’s streets celebrating connection and open conversation around mental health. It’s family-friendly and suitable for all abilities.
Get involved: Form a group with friends, family or colleagues and join the walk. Details: https://www.sydneywellnesswalk.com.au
Mental Health First Aid Training (Online & Sydney-based)
When: October 14–15 and October 22 & 24
About: Learn the skills to recognise and support people experiencing mental health challenges. This accredited course builds confidence to assist friends, family and colleagues when they need it most.
Get involved: Choose an online or in-person session that suits you.Register: https://mhfa.com.au
NSW Mental Health Month Community Calendar
When: Throughout October 2025
About: Explore art shows, talks, wellbeing experiences and community activities across Sydney and NSW. Many events are free and family-friendly.
Get involved: Browse the calendar to find something that interests you: https://mentalhealthmonth.wayahead.org.au
Big Blue Table – Beyond Blue
When: Throughout October 2025
About: Host or attend a “Big Blue Table” — a shared meal that encourages open conversations about mental health and helps raise funds for Beyond Blue’s vital support services.
Get involved: Gather friends, family or colleagues and register to host your own table. Find out more: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-involved/events/big-blue-table
Borderline Personality Disorder Awareness Week
When: 1–7 October 2025
About: A national awareness week focused on building understanding and compassion for people living with BPD, featuring webinars, stories and community events.
Find out more: https://www.bpdawareness.com.au
National Carers Week
When: 12–18 October 2025
About: Recognising and celebrating the 2.65 million Australians who provide unpaid care and support to family members and friends.
Find out more: See events: https://carersweek.com.au
OCD Awareness Week
When: 12–18 October 2025
About: A global campaign raising awareness and education around Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, led by the International OCD Foundation.
Find out more: Find resources at https://iocdf.org/programs/ocdweek/
A gentle reminder
Awareness days like these remind us that support is out there, and that reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
If you or someone you know could benefit from speaking with a psychologist, our team at Aperture Psychology offers in-person appointments at our Randwick and Marrickville clinics, and telehealth sessions Australia-wide.
Learn more about our therapy services here: https://aperturepsychology.com.au/therapy or get in touch here: https://aperturepsychology.com.au/contact
