Representatives from the Lake Regional Health System, along with those from other organizations, will be hosting sessions in Miller and Morgan counties to highlight the mental health issues that people might experience during their lives.
“The goal of these mental health awareness days is to help decrease the stigma of mental illness and increase general knowledge about mental health and mental illness,” said Billye Bennett, the Regional Education Coordinator for the Lake Regional Health System.
There will be two events for the next several weeks, one located in each of the two counties. Medical providers will be available to speak with guests and diagnose potential issues related to depression, substance abuse and thoughts of suicide.
There will also be exhibitors attending the event to educate the public about coping skills they can learn to address episodes of mental illness. The theme for this year includes using humor, animal companionship and recreational activities as sources of stability to deal with mental health issues that could occur.
“For example, we have a clown coming who will be exhibiting under the human umbrella,” Bennett said.
The key, she said, is to address these issues early so they do not become larger problems later on.
The event for May 6 will be at the Eldon Community Center while the May 16 event will be at the Morgan County Health Department located in Versailles.
Those interested in finding out more about the event can contact the Lake Regional Community Outreach.