A WELLBEING event that aims to help people with their mental health will take place next Thursday. 

Motiv8 - one of the biggest free recreational events to be held in the area - is taking place in The Barn, Eirias Park, Colwyn Bay between 1pm and 6pm on May 23.

Activities on offer - by clubs, organisations and experts - include mixed ability rugby, box fit, burlesque, step one dance academy, football, golf, yoga, music, Tai Chi and Tui Na massage.

Visitors can try out activities for free.

Motiv8 is the brainchild of mental health occupational therapist Shaz Jamieson-Evans who worked with voluntary, third sector and local agencies in Gwynedd before introducing the project into Conwy two years ago.

Shaz has worked alongside her Colwyn Bay colleague, occupational therapist Mark Morris.

Mark said: “Each day individuals and families struggle with the impact of depression, stress or other mental health difficulties. Sometimes it’s as simple as feeling low and not being able to pin-point why you are feeling that way, and if left unchecked in the long-term it can spiral into something that can’t be easily managed.

“All of the Motiv8 team have been working hard to uncover some positive ways of maintaining good mental health and some of it comes down to what we do when we’re not busy at work or juggling everyday life.”

According to The Royal College of Psychiatrists, strong evidence exists showing 25-30 per cent reduction in depression in adults who participate in physical activity daily.

Exercise also has potential advantages over antidepressants with fewer side effects. 

The event is open to any age. Residents are welcome to come along and meet people from local clubs, ask questions about activities they fancy trying and have a go at something new. 

For more and to see what other activities are on offer, visit Motiv8 - for the county of Conwy on Facebook.