A community event promoting mental well-being and healthy living was held yesterday in Iao Hon Market Garden in Areia Preta, bringing together local organisations and non-resident worker (NRW) communities to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Titled “Healthy Mind, Healthy Life: A day to rest, to relieve your stress!”, the event was organised by Be Cool Project, an initiative by the Association of Rehabilitation of Drug Abusers of Macau (ARTM).
The one-day, open-air event featured a series of interactive activities aimed at encouraging healthier lifestyles and open conversations about mental health. The programme included an opening ceremony, booth activities with games and information materials, a session on relaxation and healthy living tips, a Zumba* session, and cultural performances by NRW communities, including Filipino, Indonesian, Nepalese and Vietnamese groups.
Speaking to the Post on the event’s sidelines yesterday, Marcus Leong Ka Ho, deputy director of ARTM, said the initiative was designed to address the persistent stigma surrounding mental health issues. He said some individuals were reluctant to seek help due to fear of being judged or labelled, adding that public pressure can discourage those experiencing difficulties from accessing support services.
“That’s why we want to promote awareness in the community and reduce stigma”, he said. “There is nothing to hide. If you ask for help, we will help”. Leong added that the event also aimed to strengthen connections between service providers and minority communities, who may face language and cultural barriers when accessing local mental health services.
By inviting migrant groups to participate alongside support organisations, the event sought to expand the desired outreach and improve accessibility. Leong also highlighted the link between substance use and mental health challenges, noting that early prevention efforts can reduce the need for treatment in the long term. “As a frontline NGO [non-governmental organisation] in addiction services, we believe that if we invest more in prevention, we can have fewer people needing treatment,” he said.
The objective of the event was, according to the organisers, to underscore the importance of community engagement, inclusivity and early intervention in promoting mental well-being, while encouraging residents to seek support when needed.
*Zumba is a popular branded dance-fitness programme, often called “exercise in disguise”, that combines high-energy Latin and international music with dance movements to create a total-body cardio workout. – DeepSeek
Guests interact with some of the booths during yesterday’s “Healthy Mind, Healthy Life: A day to rest, to relieve your stress!” community event in Iao Hon Market Garden in Areia Preta district. – Photo: Khalel Vallo
