SAMARA Weaving wants to stamp out the stigma surrounding mental illness.

The Home and Away star and former Canberra girl is an ambassador for World Mental Health Day on October 10, and is using the power of social media and her status as one of Australia’s most recognisable stars to raise public awareness of mental health issues.

“One in five Australians will suffer mental illness this year,” Samara says.

“Mental illness can be a bit of a taboo topic for people; some people think it’s an embarrassing thing or a weakness. But as soon as people start talking about it, it really helps stop the issue from becoming so taboo.”

With her hectic schedule, Samara says even she has days where she “feels anxious, or has anxiety attacks.”

“Everyone knows someone who has suffered from mental health issues and if you are one of those people, this is what this day is about,” she says.

Samara and her fellow World Mental Health Day ambassadors hope to promote open discussion of mental health issues, as well as emphasise the importance of seeking help and early intervention when needed.

 For more information visit www.1010.org.au and follow the national conversation on Twitter #WMHD2012