Walk 'N' Talk for Life: Tamworth event to improve mental illess

When Tamworth's Katie Taylor first moved to England, there were days when she struggled to get out of bed.

Navigating the roads could send her into a full blown panic attack and alcohol became an outlet that just fueled the spiral.

Eventually she sought help and opened up about mental illness, now she's planned Tamworth's first Walk 'N' Talk for Life, a community get-together to talk the worries away.

"More than ever, suicide rates are going up and with pressure, stress and financial issues our modern way of living is not supportive of handling challenging times," organiser Ms Taylor said.

"I just think society is so quick to dismiss people's feelings, and it's our feelings that make us human.

"In all of our busyness we have lost connection, so just creating a space where we can appreciate nature, breathe in fresh air, be grateful for what is and maybe help someone else through our own pain was important."

The Walk 'N' Talk for Life started with 200 people in Manly three years ago by personal trainer Shannon Nevin, who saw the positive impact physical exercise had on metal health.

It's not just for people who have been affected by suicide or depression, it's an opportunity to share struggles and connect by simply walking together.

The event is free and there's no registration, walkers meet at the yellow Walk 'N' Talk marquee on the Bicentennial Park side of Tamworth Regional Playground.

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Participants receive a free shirt before they set off on the Peel River Walk for about an hour, followed by a barbecue in the park.

The walk is on Sunday at 10am, and Ms Taylor hopes to make it a monthly event.

"My husband and I are very mindful of the effects of suicide and depression and want to do something for the community and ourselves," she said.

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