Mental Health Fair draws a crowd
Also, eclipse glasses available in Greentown, and from the Lantern
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Improving mental health was the goal, and if the turnout and number of resource providers were any indication, the Mental Health Fair held last month accomplished its mission.
Dozens of service providers and resources filled the United Auto Workers Local 685 hall. From the local hospitals to crisis support for veterans to recovery options for those struggling with addiction, there was something at the fair for anyone struggling with their mental well-being or simply looking for ways to stay mentally healthy.
“Last year, we realized there wasn't anything like this in the area,” said Christie Tate, director of the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Howard County, which organized the event. “A lot of people don't know what Kokomo has to offer as far as mental health services. Mental health isn't just going to a therapist or provider.
“Your finances influence your mental health. Your spirituality affects it. If you have addiction problems, that feeds into your mental health. We wanted to gather as many resources as we could to put together ways that people can make their lives better.”
There were options for improving one’s diet, strengthening faith, and even a children’s area where tots could color pictures while their caretakers sought resources. In all, 27 providers attended the event, all with the intent to make a difference in someone’s life.
The effort won’t stop with one mental health fair. Tate explained that her organization is putting together a resource guide that will contain contact information for all of the participating organizations. The coalition will take that guide with it to other events it attends. That includes the Howard County 4H Fair and any Turning Point-sponsored event, as the coalition is an extension of that organization.
The coalition is also planning a walk to recognize those lost to suicide as well as those surviving the tragedy or left behind after a loved one committed suicide. The walk will take place in September, which is Suicide Prevention Month.
For additional information about the Suicide Prevention Coalition, or to receive help with a mental health issue, call 765-860-8365, email suicideprevention@turningpointsoc.org, or visit www.turningpointsoc.org .
Eclipse glasses available
The Greentown Historical Society, 103 E. Main Street will be giving away eclipse glasses, plus eclipse information, on Saturday, April 6, and Monday, April 8, from 1-4 p.m. For additional information, please call 765-626-0164.
The Kokomo Lantern also has a limited supply of eclipse glasses available any time prior to April 8. To request your free eclipse glasses, email kokomolantern@gmail.com.