Physiotherapist Jeroen Bijman and sports teacher Sara Bees are organizing the ‘Happy Mind Day’ on Sunday 16 April. Walking and running routes are held on the Wilhelminalaan, workshops and lectures are given and there is also a lot to do for children. The proceeds of the day will benefit MIND. The foundation wants to give a voice to people with a mental illness and their loved ones.
“As a physiotherapist, I see people coming into the practice with crutches or a walker. Then you can see that someone has something, but it is more difficult to recognize a depressed person,” says Bijman in our latest podcast. “I think that’s why there is less understanding for people with a mental illness.”
Make negotiable
The mental health of many Dutch people is deteriorating and that became painfully clear to Bijman and Bees last year. “One of our yoga teachers has developed a psychosis. We sat and talked to her. Unfortunately, she took her own life not much later.” And that is why the physiotherapist and sports teacher organize This day; to make mental complaints negotiable and to be able to help more people. “Because everyone is entitled to that help.”
Podcast
Do you need help or are you worried about someone? Contact 113 Suicide Prevention at 113.nl. You can also call 113 (paid) or 0900-0113 (free).
