May 2014 – Mental Health Awareness Month has been celebrated throughout the world for over 50 years.
• Did you know that 1 in 4 adults in the USA live with some form of mental illness, in any given year?
• 1 in 5 children living in the United States lives with an emotional or behavioral disorder.
• In Oneida County, compared to the national average, our youth are at a higher risk of depression and serious contemplation of suicide, than ever before.
As a community, our best chance of understanding and preventing mental health issues – like depression and substance abuse & breaking the stigma associated with them – is to openly discuss these issues and diminish the negative impact that they have on our children, families and the community.
CFLR, Inc. is offering several opportunities for community members to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, and to get involved in advocacy and recovery efforts. They include:
• Attending the free screening of the film, Here one Day, about a woman living with mental illness, her relationships with her family, and the ripple effects of her suicide on those whom she loved. The viewing will take place on Wednesday, May 14th at 6:00P.M. at SUNYIT (Student Center). Not only will attendees have the opportunity to view the film, but they’ll also be able to speak with the producer, Kathy Leichter, who’ll be able to answer any questions they may have; talk about her loss and how she moved forward;
• Wear a green ribbon for Mental Health Awareness Month. Wear it all month long, and be ready with your ‘elevator speech’ as to why good mental health affects all of us;
• Make daily posts to your Facebook page, throughout the month, regarding mental health. Visit our page, www.facebook.com/WhenTheresHelpTheresHope, often & learn more about how to get involved in efforts that support recovery from mental health, substance use and behavioral issues;
• Attend CFLR, Inc.’s Open House on Wednesday, May 21st, 2014 from 4:00P.M. – 5:30P.M. at CFLR, Inc.’s Utica Office, 502 Court Street, Suite 401 to learn more, and get more involved.
