Georgia Advocates Celebrate World Mental Health Day

World Mental Health Day (October 10, 2018) will mark a special beginning for mental health advocates in the state. Mental Health America of Georgia (MHA of GA) will celebrate the occasion by hosting several events to engage community members. It will also serve as a kickoff for the organization’s end of year giving campaign.

World Mental Health Day 2018 will focus on the mental health of youth and young adults in a changing world. MHA of GA will promote resiliency in young people and healthy lifestyle habits to avoid cycles of abuse, violence, substance use, and technology overload. “Young people today have immediate access to violent images and messages in media which may lead to trauma related symptoms, apathy and/or fear that stifles successful outcomes,” said Jewell Gooding Executive Director of MHA of GA. According to the 2017 State of Mental Health Report by Mental Health America, last year, approximately 85,000 youth (12-17) experienced a major depressive episode (MDE) and 65.5% of those did NOT seek or receive treatment.

More regularly, recent events have brought attention to mental health and substance abuse amongst youth. Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for Georgia’s youth, 15-24 years of age. As of May 2018, there has been 18 reported youth suicides in the state. “We have an opportunity to build leaders and cultivate social emotional competence to deal with the pressures of school, community, social issues and expectations to achieve. People are looking for ways be proactive, a part of the solution. We are hoping advocates across the state will join us,” said Gooding.

On October 10th, different partners throughout the state will do just that by hosting activities for the MHA of Ga end-of-year campaign. To participate or host an event contact MHA of GA directly.

Activities for October will include:

10/10: MHA of Ga Tweet-a-thon

Chow for a Change Fundraiser (Chipotle ~ North Druid Hills)

10/19: Move for Mental Health (Cosmic Energy)

10/25: Sip and Paint (Painting with a Twist ~Edgewood)

10/28 Sip n Paint (Painting with a Twist ~Savannah)

MHA of GA is the Georgia affiliate of National Mental Health America, the nation's leading community-based nonprofit dedicated to helping people with mental health challenges live mentally healthier lives. The 70-year old non-profit promotes mental health and wellness across the state of Georgia through education, outreach and advocacy. MHA of GA supports Georgians thriving in compassionate communities with access to mental wellness resources.

For more information, please visit www.mhageorgia.org/worldmental...