RAISING awareness around mental health issues in the Maranoa is something that needs to be encouraged, according to mental health workers in the region.

Roma Mental Health Service Coordinator Tegan Russell was the organiser of the first R U OK? Day event in Roma held last Saturday at the Big Rig and she said it was a great opportunity to let people know what services are available for mental health in the area.

"It's so good to see the community down here,” she said.

"It's turned out better than what we expected and I think our aim was to base it on having activities for kids and that's paid off.”

The event was hosted by the South West Hospital and Health service in conjunction with a number of other government and non-government organisations.

"It is about connecting with community and services, communicating with each other and caring for those around us,'' she said.

"Together we can help build a more resilient South West region to prevent suicide.''

Mental Health and Other Drugs coordinator Michael Reddan said the eday had been a major success and would hopeful become an annual event.

"It's fantastic that so many have stepped up to the plate to make it a happen this weekend,” he said.

"I think it's contributing to the destigmatisation of mental health as an issue within our community.

"The more we talk about, the more accepted it becomes and the more likely people are to step up and do something about it.”