Mental Health Recovery

Welcome to the Melbourne 40+ gay men support group! My name is Steven Cabral and I am a trained group facilitator and counsellor. The idea for this support group was born out of a gap in community service that I observed where mature aged gay men could share and relate to each other in midlife. I found that most of the services seem geared towards the younger generation and rightly so, but I feel there is a particular experience in middle age and onwards that needs to be honoured, supported, and acknowledged. As we transition into a different phase of life, we are faced with a different set of challenges. It is my belief, from my own experience, that some of these are directly, but not exclusively, tied to our sexuality and that can influence self-actualisation later in life in various ways. Some of us may be carrying trauma from a time where we weren't as readily accepted. This may be seeping through other areas of our life and affecting our beliefs of self-worth and love, completely unbeknownst to us. Some of us may be feeling alone at this phase in our lives because we didn't follow the well worn societal map followed by the majority; such as having kids and partners. As a result, we may feel alone in a peer groups or especially within our own families. Some of us may simply be struggling to navigate this new phase and all that it entails ranging from dating in middle age to bigger questions of how to find meaning and purpose in our lives. Some of us may be dealing with grief. If any of this resonates with you, then I want you to know that you are not alone. My hope for the group is that you feel a sense of belonging and shared experience. That, in of itself, can be extremely healing. The group is not a substitute for therapy, but a safe space to share and connect with others on a similar journey and to find and give inspiration. The group is specifically targeted to gay men who are aged 40+ due to the topics covered. Due to the limitations of the space and the need to keep it intimate, there is a maximum of 10 attendees. Venue: Sussex Neighbourhood House Inc. 7 Prospect St, Pascoe Vale VIC 3044 Date/Times: Once a month on Mondays 7:30pm - 9:00pm \*\* Door will be closed 5 mins after group starts so as not to disrupt the group. Booking a spot in group: If it is fully booked, please ALWAYS go on Wait List - the app automatically gives you a spot as soon as someone drops out. I will reminding RSVP'd attendees to change their RSVPs to *Not Going* if they are no longer going, so that those on the Wait List get their place. If you regularly don't show up and don't let me know - I will be in contact to see if there are any issues. Fees: FREE - This is a once off event in consideration for this weeks group not running as anticipated. Guidelines: An opening creed will be read at the beginning of each group session. It is paramount though that ALL attendees feel safe, welcomed and respected at ALL times. The group acknowledges the traditional owners of the land and I'd also like to extend that acknowledgement to those with lived experience of mental health challenges. Thank you so much for reading this far - I look forward to meeting you in person. Remember, it only takes a baby step to start change. Please message me directly with any questions. Steven Cabral.

Join us at Eltham Leisure Centre for a FREE fun-filled Walking Football Mixed Gender Session, brought to you by Walking Football 4 Health Victoria. This event is designed for anyone looking for a low impact sport to stay active, be part of a welcoming community, and most importantly have fun. Our friendly host, Paul, will be there to introduce you to walking football, ensuring a safe and engaging experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to engage in sports, socialise, and promote a healthy lifestyle in a welcoming community environment. There is no cost for this program. Sign up now and be a part of this exciting Walking Football Session. If you wish to contact the organiser, Mick directly, you can do so on: 0430 163 550 Email: info@wf4hvictoria.org.au Website: [Walking Football | Walking Soccer | Walking Football 4 Health](https://wf4hvictoria.org.au/) Facebook: [Walking Football 4 Health Victoria Group | Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/groups/wf4healthvictoria)

$29 per person for 2 hours of training (includes table hire) ## 🏓 MELBOURNE TABLE TENNIS COACHING @ MSAC Ready to seriously improve your table tennis — or finally start the right way? Join our **ongoing in-person group coaching sessions at MSAC**, where you’ll train in a structured but fun environment with players who come regularly, as well as new faces every week. Our sessions are designed for **both total beginners and advanced players.** You don’t need experience — and you won’t be bored if you already have it. ### What to expect * ✅ **10–15 players per session** * ✅ **2 experienced coaches on court** * ✅ **Structured drills + match play** * ✅ **Individual feedback based on your level and goals** * ✅ **A welcoming group that trains regularly** You’ll work on **technique, footwork, consistency, tactics, and real match situations** — not just hit balls randomly. We organise the group so everyone is challenged at the right level. ### Why people love these sessions * Ongoing training with a real community * Fast improvement, not just social play * A great way to **move, learn, and make friends** * Fun, supportive atmosphere with serious coaching behind it Whether your goal is to **learn from scratch, get fitter, sharpen your skills, or start competing**, this is a perfect place to train. ### What to bring * 🏓 **Bat/paddle** (if you have one — if not, we’ll provide it) * 👟 **Sports shoes (runners)** * 👕 **Comfortable sports clothes** * 💧 **Water bottle** * 🧴 **Small towel** Grab your paddle, bring your energy, and come hit with us at MSAC. Please send me an email to: p.tretinik@gmail.com to confirm attendance. This helps me to book enough table for a smooth session. NOTE: If this is not your first time coming to this meet up, the cost is $36 for the whole 2 hours.

theWould you like to know the true cause of DEPRESSION? Would you like to be the best version of yourself? The truth is, there is a reason why we get overwhelmed with these emotions of feeling depressed and alone and feeling as though life is too hard to cope with. In this seminar, you will learn the following: * The discovery of and complete anatomy of the Reactive Mind. * The painful experiences, or engrams, contained in the Reactive Mind command one to act irrationally against their own wishes and goals. * The complete procedure to discover and eradicate these harmful experiences so they never affect you again, revealing the one person you've always wanted to know. You.

Join Queer Meditation Melbourne for an evening of self-exploration and mindfulness in a safe and inclusive space. Start the event with a guided meditation session focused on promoting wellness, positive thinking, and spiritual growth. Connect with like-minded individuals from the LGBT community and enjoy meaningful conversations that nurture self-empowerment and consciousness. After the meditation practice, we will engage in social activities, promoting healthy living and dining out experiences. This event is designed for gay men and gay and lesbian friends who are looking to nurture their spiritual journey while building connections within the community. Come together to foster a sense of belonging and support each other in a space that celebrates diversity and self-care.

**Struggling with study or learning? You’re not alone.** This meetup suits people at all levels of study skill. Too many children, teenagers, and adults find studying difficult—not because they lack ability, but because they were never taught **how to learn**. This meetup introduces the basics of **Study Technology**—a practical, proven approach that shows how learning really works and how to overcome common study barriers. It applies to children, teens (and parents), teachers, and adults alike. You’ll discover simple, effective methods to improve understanding, confidence, and performance—whether at school, work, or online. Teachers and parents often see rapid improvements in both behaviour and results. Yes, it *is* possible to improve study performance—in just **five easy steps**. If you can’t attend in person, online options are available. **Join us and learn how to study effectively—once and for all.** See you at the meetup, **Pam** When learning clicks, confidence follows.

The Buddhist spiritual path centres on our own mind’s vast potential for peace, compassion and wisdom. True lasting happiness does not depend on external factors but comes from looking inwards to better know our own mind and heart. This course presents key insights from the Buddha’s life and teachings to show how, through meditation and shifting our focus inwards, we can find true, unending contentment. This course presents key Buddhist frameworks that guide our path, including: * The three vehicles of Buddhism, which progressively show how we can nurture our innate peace, compassion and wisdom. * The four seals, which encapsulate what is unique about the Buddha’s teachings and sets them apart from other religions and philosophies. * Including teachings from foremost Tibetan masters of our time, space for contemplation, reflection and discussion, and guided meditations, this course will give you practical tools to help you work with your mind and take charge of your spiritual path. **Details** **Where**: Attend in person at Rigpa Melbourne, 803 Nicholson Street Carlton North. **When**: Monday evenings, for 9 weeks, starting 27 April 2026, a break on 8 June 2026, and finishing 29 June 2026. **Time**: 7.00pm – 9.00pm AEDT. **Cost**: 9-week module: Full $180, Concession $90. **Register here:** [https://rigpa.org.au/event/this-life-the-buddhas-guide-to-inner-transformation-melbourne-april-june-2026/2026-04-27/](https://rigpa.org.au/event/this-life-the-buddhas-guide-to-inner-transformation-melbourne-april-june-2026/2026-04-27/)

Modern life moves fast. Work, screens, notifications, constant thinking. It’s easy to feel stressed, tired, or disconnected. This Sunday, slow down with Kirtan - a powerful live music meditation experience. Come for: ✨ Singing, dancing, and uplifting energy ✨ A calm mind and open heart ✨ A real sense of belonging No singing skills needed! Just calmness & connection. 🗓️Sunday \| 6\-8pm 🍴Incl Dinner 📍South Melbourne

Join in at 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra for the Mental Health Foundation Australia Monthly Depression Support Group. Introducing Akshay as our current facilitator. Akshay has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences and is passionate about understanding and managing depression, anxiety and stressed based disorders. Akshay takes a non-judgemental, compassionate approach to addressing mental health issues and engages participants to share in a positive and safe environment. Come along and be with people who understand and share in your experiences. They may start out as strangers but they will quickly become friends. To register your attendance please see: [https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/depression-support-group](https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/depression-support-group) You can also sign up for the Online Depression Support Group which is held on the second Monday of each month on the same page. For other MHFA support groups please see: [https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/](https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/) If you need any further information feel free to contact us at supportgroup@mhfa.org.au

Depression, Anxiety, Stress and worry are real concerns when we consider mental health. What causes the overwhelming sadness, the insomnia, the frightening panic attacks, the lack of energy, the mental fatigue and nervousness experienced by so many people. https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/8/1/0/600_459310256.jpeg Even a temporary state of stress can affect our ability to reason and result in actions or decisions that have disastrous long-term results. What is it that is holding you back and stops you from being YOU? Quality of life depends so much on mental health. People desire happiness but authentic happiness is often short-lived. Sometimes only a dim memory from childhood. Children are known for their ability to find joy in the simplest of things. What is it that affects a person's ability to experience true happiness? The Circumstances are the same, but the person no longer responds with positive emotions. Instead he or she may have a persistent gnawing anger, fear or sadness that depresses the consciousness and brings the person to reliance on pills or alcohol. The change may be gradual, occurring slowly over many years or it can be sudden, triggered by a traumatic stress such as the death of a loved one or a broken heart. The answer to these problems has been searched for for thousands of years but the problem appears to getting worse, with the rates of depression and suicide climbing alarmingly. Very few lives remain unaffected either directly or indirectly by these modern scourges. Could it be that the modern "treatments" and "solutions" to these problems are actually making things worse? That could only occur if the people developing and using these "treatments" did not know the true underlying reason for these problems. Today's meetup topic is based on Dianetics, The Modern Science of Mental Health by L. Ron Hubbard We will discuss the underlying reason for depression, anxiety, fear, nervousness, unhappiness, phobias and many other unwanted emotions and reactions as revealed and is fully explained in L. Ron Hubbard's book Dianetics. Life can become fun again, just like it was when you were a child. Hard to Believe? Well don't believe - find out for yourself and then you will KNOW. You have the opportunity to have all your questions answered. Nothing in Dianetics has to be true for you unless you have observed it and it is true according to your own observation. Today's meetup enables you to make your own observations. Make this go right for you, RSVP yes and ensure you attend this meetup. Know Yourself, Know Life! Tanja This Event is educational only and not to diagnose, treat or cure mental health issues. Attend our Meetup's at our scheduled Meetup times or visit Scientology at Ascot Vale at any time best suited to you. We are open 7 days each week. Alternatively visit our Network TV channel at www.scientology.tv You will be able to find out facts and why it is that people from all walks of life including many business owners use Scientology tools to improve. This group consist our of many religions including those with no faith (Atheist) All people of goodwill are welcomed.

How the Mind is making the Body Ill! What the mind is doing to the body. (yours) Did you know that about 70 percent of the physician's current roster of diseases fall into the category of psychosomatic illness? Psychosomatic Illnesses are those which have a mental origin but are nevertheless organic. Psycho, of course, means mind and somatic refers to body; the term psychosomatic means the mind making the body ill or illnesses which have been created physically within the body by derangement of the mind. At today's meetup you are able to learn why is it that some people recover promptly from illness, trauma or accidents whilst others receiving the very same treatments do so slowly, not at all or relapse. When one desires to handle any unwanted condition in life the mind plays a crucial role. Why is it then that all to many confess they know very little about the mind or anything at all. The mind and the problem of psychosomatic illness are entirely embraced by Dianetics (the Modern Science of Mental Health ) and by Dianetics technique. https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/5/a/1/600_462605537.jpeg Dianetics means: What the mind is doing to the body. Trough the application of Dianetics technique you will be able to confirm that when one resolves the problem of human aberration (any deviation or departure from rationality) you naturaly get great response all around. (Not just body related) Bizarre aches and pains in various portions of the body are generally psychosomatic. Migraine headaches are psychosomatic. Arthritis, dermatitis, allergies, asthma some coronary difficulties, eye trouble, bursitis, ulcers, sinusitis, etc., form a very small section of the psychosomatic catalog. Therefore the catalog of ills affected by Dianetics technique is very long. Dianetics is something that anyone can use to help improve himself and his fellows. My own truth is that the hidden source of all psychosomatic ills and human aberration has been discovered and accurate skills have been developed for their handling. I also know that many other people have experienced this to be true. Dianetics is a path to knowing how to know, unlocking the gates to be better future for yourself or others you love or are responsible for. Only by reading the Dianetics book (or watching the DVD) in full can one get an understanding of the workings of the mind and the potential merits that applying Dianetics technique yourself may have for you. Amherst College Political Science Professor, Dr Frederick L. Schuman declaration in the New York times: "History has become a race between Dianetics and catastrophe. Dianetics will win, if enough people are challenged in time to understand it" Your own investigation into Dianetics The Modern Science of Mental Health is prudent and welcomed. It's after all very sensible to investigate personally why this explosive bestseller book has sold more copies than any other book in its category and is the most influential book ever written about the mind. The above are some of my own opinions, experiences, and observations. As always results obtained by the individual are up to him. No promises are made by me or anyone or anybody. Any technique no matter how good does not work for people that do not want to change, are not interested or have other agendas. Those that do not fall into those categories tend to do very well and flourish and prosper because of it. Truth is not what people say it is. it is what it is. All People of goodwill are welcome. Contact us if today's date or time do not suit your schedule. If one can not make it to our meetup class then it's recommended you get yourself a copy of the Dianetics book or DVD by contacting the event organizer. Know yourself Know Life!. Tanja and Michel

This meetup is your introduction to Dianetics, and you can have your questions answered. **[DIANETICS THE ALL-TIME CLASSIC ON THE HUMAN MIND](https://www.dianetics.org/about/films/what-is-dianetics.html)** For 75 years, Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health has remained popular, with over 20 million copies sold across 206 nations. Why? Because it challenges everything you thought you knew-about yourself, your decisions, and the unseen influences affecting your life. You may not know what the reactive mind is-yet. But once you do, it will change your life forever. This hidden part of your mind stores painful experiences and uses them against you, altering your thoughts, emotions and behaviors in ways you don't even realize. Inside this handbook, you'll discover: • Why the same struggles keep repeating—and how you can break free • The real reason behind stress, unreasonable fears, and negative emotions • A clear step-by-step method to clear your mind and unlock your true potential This is not theory—it's a practical, one-on-one journey into your reactive mind and how you can get rid of it. You don't have to wait for change-you can start today. **Discover the Power of Your Mind** Join us for a relaxed, interactive **Dianetics Meetup**, where it's your chance to explore the groundbreaking discoveries in *Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health* and have all your questions answered. Come with your curiosity—leave with insight. Ask for Michel, Pam or Donovan. If the time and date do not suit you personally, you may reschedule, SMS Pam on: 0405 648 822 https://www.dianetics.org/about/films/what-is-dianetics.html

Internal Family Systems is a therapeutic approach that understands we are made up of many parts. Some are playful, creative or vulnerable. Others step in as protectors, who have developed to protect us at some point in our lives from pain, rejection or abandonment. These protectors might show up as: * the inner critic * the people-pleaser * the perfectionist * the controller * the caretaker * the rebel In this session, we will learn more about what IFS is. We will map some of the most common protector parts, focus in on one or two, and explore creative exercises to represent and/or dialogue with these parts. There will be an optional sharing to close. The duration of the workshop will be between 1.5 and 2h depending on the number of attendees. If you are facing financial stress, please type 'Concession' as a promo code for a discounted price of $25. If this is still difficult, please reach out. I am happy to make arrangements, and no one will be turned away. Contact me at [greenhouse.arttherapy@gmail.com](http://greenhouse.arttherapy@gmail.com/) **Please note:** This workshop introduces IFS-informed Art Therapy as a practice, but is not intended to replace individual or group therapy, which involves a deeper exploration of our histories, intentional collaboration and the building of a therapeutic relationship. This workshop is also not intended for emergency crisis support or intervention. * If you are comfortable with me taking photos of you and/or your artwork for learning and supervision purposes, and to offer others a sense of what the workshop is like, please let me know at the start of the session. Your participation would be greatly appreciated!

**You are invited to our men's conversation group, the Men Being Well program** run by Relationships Australia Victoria and Life Is Foundation. This free program is for men to meet, discuss and explore wellbeing through **connection**, **reflection** and **peer support**. **IN-PERSON Men's Gathering on Wed 27th MAY at 7 to 9 PM** Men Being Well hosts monthly Men’s Gatherings or conversation groups and several all-day Men’s Retreats throughout the year. Our events are aimed at positive mental health and wellbeing for men and include regular discussion about life issues and challenges. The relaxed format is welcoming and a safe place to reflect on your personal journey. We hope you can join us in Canterbury, Melbourne and look forward to relaxed and thoughtful discussion. *Please contact us via email (or message us on Meetup) for address details and a brief chat if you are coming along for the first time.* Please email us and join our mailing list as well: **menbeingwell@rav.org.au** Visit our webpage for more dates and information about the Men Being Well program: [www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au/relationships-wellbeing-courses/men-being-well/](https://www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au/relationships-wellbeing-courses/men-being-well/) Regards from your Men Being Well Program Facilitators

Join us for the first gathering of The Pause Collective — a supportive meetup for neurodivergent women navigating perimenopause, menopause, burnout, overwhelm, and life transitions. This will be a relaxed, low-pressure coffee shop meetup focused on connection and conversation. No need to prepare anything. No pressure to share. Come as you are. We’ll spend time getting to know each other, talking about what brought us here, and exploring what kind of community we’d like to create together. This space is neurodivergent-affirming, self-diagnosis-friendly, and supportive of different communication styles and energy levels.

Summer Session, Thursdays, June 4 - July 23, 2026, from 6 to 8:30pm ET **NAMI Family-to-Family** is a free, eight-week program for family members, caregivers, and partners of individuals living with mental illness. NAMI Family-to-Family provides information about anxiety, depressive disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. Other topics covered include communication, problem solving, treatment, and recovery.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Here is the secret of being positive and free: Thinking positively is not enough. You also have to get rid of the negative thinking. Your mind is like a garden. You can plant many beautiful flowers in it, but if you don't get rid of the weeds when you plant your flowers, the weeds will soon take over the whole garden. A positive thought is like a flower in your mental garden, and a negative thought is like a weed. You cannot expect to have a positive mindset if you continue to have negative thoughts dwelling and growing there. So, how do you get rid of the negative thoughts? That's what this Meetup is all about. Attend this local meeting and find out! The Meetup event will be led by a consultant who had helped many people live happier in life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

Mental Health, how do you understand it? How can you improve it? How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp. This group is hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

It’s time to take control of your mental health. How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp.

Why are we unhappy? Where does emotional pain come from? Studies show that people who suffer from long-term emotional pain have painful experiences in their lives that were never fully resolved in their mind. In other words, there were issues in the past that were not completely dealt with. This can include abuse in childhood, breakups, divorce, death of a loved one, to name a few. How do you know whether you have gotten over something painful? Here is an easy test: Do you still have attention on what had happened to you? For instance, do you still find yourself thinking about something painful that you went through? If you are, then you are not over it. In fact, in severe cases, people find themselves playing a "tape" in their mind over and over again. So how do you heal from your past? How do you stop the "tape" playing in your mind? In this meeting, you will learn a technique to help you with that. Come join us! Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Dianetics and Scientology life improvement center.