Small Steps for better wellbeing
From the 8th to 16th of October, we came together to celebrate 2026 NT Mental Health Week, embracing this year’s theme of Small Steps. The theme encouraged Territorians to take small steps towards building healthy habits, improving their wellbeing and prioritising their mental health. Simple everyday actions, such as going for a walk, connecting with friends and family, spending time outdoors or taking a moment to pause and recharge, can make a meaningful difference over time.
Across the NT, organisations and communities marked the week with activities and events designed to encourage connection, creativity and positive mental health. A couple of examples included:
In Darwin, MIFANT (Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia NT) celebrated the week through its Colour Hunting NT photography competition, inviting participants to choose a colour and find it in the world around them. The initiative encouraged people to slow down, notice their surroundings and find moments of enjoyment in everyday life.
In Alice Springs, the community was invited to take part in Stress Less in the Plaza, organised by the Mental Health Association of Central Australia (MHACA). It was a free event featuring information stalls, live music, family activities and opportunities to explore practical ways to support mental health and wellbeing. It was exceptional to see this event go ahead, even during a period of wild and unpredictable weather!
2026 NT Mental Health Week Award Winners
A highlight of the week was the NT Mental Health Week Awards, which recognised the outstanding contributions of individuals and organisations working to improve mental health and social and emotional wellbeing across the Territory.
Congratulations to the 2026 award winners:
Leadership in Lived Experience Award
Winner: Zahin Seedat, recognised for his advocacy and leadership in ensuring young people's lived experiences help shape mental health policy and services.
A Special Commendation was also given to Jeremy Downes, recognising his work and contributions in front line support, governance and research.
Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing Award
Winner: ARDS Aboriginal Corporation, recognised for its Yolŋu-led approach to healing, bringing Elders and community leaders together to support social and emotional wellbeing across Northeast Arnhem Land.
A Special Commendation was also given to Zack Solomons, recognising his passion, leadership and person centred approaches to working with Aboriginal communities.
Innovation in Practice and Workforce Development Award
Winner: Annette Trikilis, recognised for developing an innovative, self-guided Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) program to improve access to mental health support.
Integration and Collaborative Practice Award
Winner: Strongbala Minds Walk-In Talk-In Space and headspace Katherine, recognising their partnership to improve access to coordinated mental health support for young people, families and communities across Katherine and the Big Rivers region.
These awards celebrate the dedication, innovation and compassion of people and organisations making a real difference in the lives of Territorians. Their work highlights the importance of lived experience, culturally responsive support and collaboration in creating stronger, healthier communities.
NT Mental Health Week may have wrapped up, but we encourage the conversations to continue. Thank you to everyone who participated!
