A PLANNED cookbook packed with tasty dishes is set to become part of the recipe for better mental health.
Mentally Healthy WA in Shenton Park is calling for the public to submit their recipe ideas for the book as part of the Act-Belong-Commit campaign, which aims at keeping brains ticking over.
MHWA encourages young and old to get involved in activities that lift the spirits, such as cooking and dancing as well as providing people with links to local social activities and clubs.
MHWA manager Amberlee Laws thought of the idea for a cookbook because she felt everyone could relate to delicious foods and she wanted to share favourite recipes.
She said aspects of cooking like gathering ingredients, preparation and tucking into the finished product with others provided a sense of achievement and belonging.
“It is important that the recipes in the book have that sense of making people feel good about themselves or others, as cooking can provide that sense of satisfaction,” she said.
Ms Laws and project officer Ben Ceber will choose about 25 recipes for the publication, with successful entrants each receiving a free copy of the book later this year. Entries close on Friday July 10 and should include recipes of less than 150 words, a photo of the dish and a comment on how the recipe boosts mental health. Recipes must contain one fruit or vegetable and be low in fat, salt and sugar. Email b.ceber@curtin.edu.au or contact 9266 1646 for details.