“The Incredible Race – Survivor Edition” will be headlining activities to observe Mental Health Month in May.

The race loosely based on the CBS show “The Amazing Race” is in its sixth year and will be held over a two day period beginning on Saturday, May 25 from 7:30 a.m. at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park.

Director of Community Mental Health, Dr. Virginia Rubaine explained, “Teams of four people will race around the Territory to gather clues in an effort to arrive first at various “Pit Stops”.  The top teams to arrive at these stops may win prizes and avoid elimination.”

Dr. Rubaine stated that the Incredible Race is not only about speed but persons will be tested mentally, physically and emotionally.

In addition to the race, the Mental Health Unit will also host a Family Fun Day on Saturday, May 25 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Noel Lloyd Park.  There will be fun activities for children, educational booths, music and the much anticipated Primary School Lip Sync Battle featuring groups of eight students performing a Disney song at the Family Fun Day. A winner will be chosen.

Dr. Rubaine is also extending an invitation to persons who are interested in volunteering at the Family Fun Day and Incredible Race activities scheduled for May 25 and 26.  Volunteers will be stationed at the park and at various legs of the race and will be served lunch and a beverage.

Persons interested in the Incredible Race, Family Fun Day or who wish to volunteer, should contact the unit at 852-7670 or via email at dheywood@bvihsa.vg to register.

Dr. Rubaine is reminding the community that the objective of Mental Health Month is to raise awareness and educate the public about mental illnesses including depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

“We also need to be mindful of the realities of living with these conditions and develop strategies for attaining and maintaining optimal mental health and wellness,” she added.

Mental Health Awareness Month will be observed under the theme “#4MIND4BODY”.

BVI Health Services Authority is committed to delivering excellent compassionate client centered healthcare.