Under the annual theme ‘Being well-surrounded’, the city of Kortrijk is once again bringing together numerous partners focused on mental health. The ‘Samen veerkrachtig’ campaign, formerly known as the Ten Days of Mental Health, aims to make mental well-being a topic of discussion, strengthen connections, and support residents in their resilience through meetings, lectures, workshops, and creative initiatives.
Kortrijk intends not only to raise awareness during the campaign but also to build a lasting movement around mental well-being, aligning with the city's ambition to prioritize health prevention and social cohesion. The focus is on the importance of a strong social network, a listening ear, and genuine encounters that protect our mental health.
Maxim Veys, alderman for Care and Health, emphasizes the theme ‘Being well-surrounded’. "It reminds us how important family, friends, neighbors, colleagues, and associations are for our well-being. Together, we are building a Kortrijk where people find support and look out for each other."
The campaign is supported by an extensive network of organizations from welfare, mental healthcare, education, culture, and youth work. Partners include az groeninge, VIVES, Howest, Avansa Mid- and Zuidwest, Netwerk GGZ PsyZuid, De MaRe, Huis Van de Mens, De Stroate, the Lijn 1 primary care practice, and various city services, offering a diverse program.
The program includes meeting points like the Veerkrachtboom and Soup with chats, lectures, training sessions on topics such as suicide prevention and media literacy, initiatives for youth and schools, and online sessions on self-care and resilience. Open house events, such as the open mind days at az groeninge, are also part of the activities.
Artist Zita from De Stroate has created a drawing, available for free download and printing at www.kortrijk.be/samenveerkrachtig. This drawing, offered in versions for children and adults, invites reflection on what connects us and can become a visible sign of togetherness throughout the city.
For those struggling with suicidal thoughts or dark moods, the Suicide Line is available 24/7 via 1813 or chat at www.zelfmoordlijn.be.
The full program can be found at www.kortrijk.be/samenveerkrachtig and www.samenveerkrachtig.be.
