Neighbor News
Annual Evanston Conference to Focus on Older Adult Mental Health
June 3 conference will feature experts from University of Chicago, Harvard, National Alliance on Mental Illness and others.
The 17th Annual Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute for Mental Health Education (NRCI) Community Mental Health Conference takes place on June 3 at 9 a.m. at Roycemore School, located at 1200 Davis Street. Titled Older Adult Mental Health: Opportunities and Challenges, the conference will shine a light on some of the most pressing mental health issues facing older adults, while also informing, teaching, and identifying resources to enhance quality of life for them, their families and caregivers. Featuring experts from several agencies and institutions, including Harvard Medical School, the University of Chicago and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the conference is open to both the public and professionals. Some of the topics covered include:
- Developmental issues in aging
- Finding needed support when one is on one's own
- Managing anxiety and depression as one ages
- Coping with loss
Speakers include:
•Jeffrey Rediger, M.D., MDiv, is on the faculty at Harvard Medical School and serves as the Chief of Behavioral Medicine at Caritas Good Samaritan Medical Center. He will share advances in integrative medicine and effective approaches to addressing older adult mental health. Dr. Rediger’s innovative approaches to holistic health have gained national attention though publications and appearances on the Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Oz shows.
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•Stanley G. McCracken, Ph.D., LCSW, RDDP is a lecturer at the University of Chicago, School of Social Service Administration. He has 40 years’ experience as a clinician, educator, and consultant, and has published on mental health and older adults for the National Center for Gerontological Social Work Education. He regularly consults with Rush University Health and Aging and Road Home Programs; Lake County Veterans and Families Service Foundation; and Asian Human Services.
•Nancy Carstedt, Executive Director of NAMI, Cook County North Suburban, will share her personal recovery journey.
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“There have been so many advances which empower people to live vibrant, fulfilling lives as they age,” said Kate Mahoney, L.C.S.W., executive director, NRCI. “Our expert panel and discussion group leaders will share research, strategies and community resources for older adults and those who love and care for them. No one should feel that they have to navigate the aging process alone. Registration is now open.”
About NRCI
The Naomi Ruth Cohen Institute for Mental Health Education’s goal is to overcome the stigma of mental illness. The Institute promotes educational programs and supports organizations engaged in mental illness research, education, self-help, anti-discrimination and advocacy. The institute annually plans, promotes and underwrites a Community Mental Health Conference. The Conference — open to professionals and members of the public — addresses critical mental health issues. To learn more, visit naomicoheninstitue.org
