‘Sleep Rough’ Challenge
Written by Ella Melake on September 13, 2023
Tackling the streets with the “Sleep Rough’ challenge, Lifeline Fiji coined this idea to address the intersectional issues between mental health and homelessness. This was done in collaboration with mental health partners including the Vodafone ATH Foundation.
The ‘Sleep Rough’ Challenge took place at the corners of Pier St, Suva
Source: YC4MH
Around 30 people joined the challenge to sleep in the streets of Suva from the evening of 9th September till 6am 10th September. These included mental health consumers, Psychology interns, mental health advocates, members of faith based communities as well as family members.
Supporters took to the streets of Suva for the ‘Sleep Rough’ Challenge.
Source: YC4MH
The PS of Education and Hon. Lenora Qereqeretabua also made an appearance to support the cause.
“Services for mental health care have become more accessible to people however, the importance of mental health is still underprioritized” this is according to a representative from a partnering organization, Youth Champs 4 Mental Health. The limited resourced hinder the development that is required to develop more resilient communities. “We still have a long way to go but the determination pf the NGO’s and advocates give us hope that we can!” they shared.
Members of the Youth Champs 4 Mental Health (YC4MH)
Source: YC4MH
The Youth Champs 4 Mental Health is an under resourced organization that works in partnership with other institutions such as Lifeline Fiji to create awareness and reach out to every member of our communities. Although, they have quite a social media presence, the YC4MH continue to work with grassroots communities to establish referral pathways and instill hope where to is needed.
Lionel Rogers from YC4MH speaks to supporters on the importance of mental health. Source: YC4MH
A vigil was also held in memory of souls that were lost to mental health issues and to celebrate ‘World Suicide Prevention Day’.
Chairman of Communication Fiji Limited, Founding Executive Officer and Director Mr. William Parkinson, and Mrs. Sufi Dean of Leadership Fiji were a part of the vigil in memory of the souls lost to suicide and to mark “World Suicide Prevention Day’ Source: YC4MH
A heartfelt and truly emotional journey it was not only for those that participated but also, for those that joined in on their different social media platforms.
