Ocean Mind Leads the Charge for Mental Wellness
This year’s World Mental Health Day has been marked by a wave of positivity and community spirit along the Surf Coast, thanks to Ocean Mind’s special paddle-out event at Torquay’s Cosy Corner. The local therapeutic surf charity gathered more than 20 people on Friday, October 10, for a morning filled with laughter, connection, and purpose.
The event, which combined surfing, social games, and a community talking circle, aimed to promote awareness of mental wellbeing and highlight the power of connection. As part of the global theme for World Mental Health Day 2025 — “Mental Health is a Universal Human Right” — Ocean Mind’s celebration emphasized that mental health belongs to everyone, everywhere.
A Celebration of Connection and Healing
Ocean Mind marketing manager Jack Balakas said the event was designed to honor the essence of mental health day through nature, mindfulness, and human connection. “It was great to have a morning of connecting with ourselves, nature, and other people,” he said. “You can be doing everything right in life — eating well, sleeping enough, exercising — but without connection, your mental wellbeing can only go so far.”
The session encouraged participants to step away from digital distractions, immerse themselves in the ocean, and reflect on the importance of balance and self-care. With the Surf Coast’s sparkling waters as the backdrop, the group paddle-out symbolized solidarity with those facing mental health challenges worldwide.
A Local Initiative with Global Impact
Ocean Mind’s World Mental Health Day celebration was not just about the surf — it was about community. Through its surf therapy programs, the organization helps young people and adults overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, and social isolation. By combining surfing with evidence-based psychological support, Ocean Mind continues to be a beacon of hope in the region.
The paddle-out event was one of several activities held across the Surf Coast this week as part of the Art of the Minds festival — an annual mental health initiative that blends creativity and wellness to foster awareness and acceptance. The festival’s diverse lineup, including art exhibits, workshops, and performances, reflects the broader effort to destigmatize conversations around mental health.
Why World Mental Health Day Matters
Every year, World Mental Health Day serves as a global reminder that mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health. From local communities to international organizations, the day sparks vital discussions about access to care, emotional resilience, and social inclusion.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in eight people worldwide lives with a mental health condition. Events like Ocean Mind’s paddle-out play a key role in reminding society that healing often begins with connection, compassion, and collective action.
Surfing Toward a Mentally Healthier Future
For many participants, the event was more than a morning surf — it was a moment to reset and reconnect. The calm rhythm of the ocean provided both a metaphor and a medium for healing. “Sometimes all it takes is being out on the water, breathing deeply, and realizing you’re not alone,” said one participant, reflecting the shared spirit of mental health day.
As the sun rose over Torquay’s coastline, the community’s shared paddle symbolized not only awareness but also hope. Ocean Mind’s initiative captured the essence of this year’s World Mental Health Day — a reminder that mental health should be nurtured daily, through kindness, understanding, and community support.
Take Action and Stay Informed
The success of Ocean Mind’s event highlights how local organizations can make a global difference through simple acts of togetherness. As awareness grows, more communities are expected to host similar activities in the years to come, ensuring that World Mental Health Day continues to inspire positive change around the world.
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