Huntington Self-Defense Event Empowers Women During Mental Health Awareness Month

HUNTINGTON, NY — Women across the Huntington area spent last Friday, May 8, learning self-defense skills, building confidence and discussing mental wellness during a free seminar hosted at Tiger Schulmann’s Martial Arts Huntington in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month.

The event, organized in partnership with Rebecca Sanin and the Association for Mental Health and Wellness, combined practical women’s self-defense instruction with conversations about emotional wellness, confidence and community support.

“We believe survivors, we believe victims, and we stand up for women,” Sanin said. “We wanted to bring resources together to strengthen our community and to strengthen our community women. My biggest hope is that the women and girls leave knowing first of all that this community cares deeply about them, that they're heard, that they're seen and that they're valued."

Throughout the evening, participants practiced defensive techniques on the mat while instructors emphasized situational awareness, personal safety and empowerment.

The seminar was led by Sensei Matthew Castillo, owner and head instructor of the Huntington martial arts school, who said he wanted to create more opportunities for women to learn practical self-defense skills.

“Frankly, I don't see it enough, which is why I reached out to the legislators,” Castillo said.

Participants Michelle Roealino and Brittany Bufinsky attended through the Huntington Tri Community and Youth Agency and said they wanted to help bring self-defense education to young women in their program.

“We thought it was a really great way to bring some of the girls from the Tri Community Center to help them defend themselves,” Bufinsky said. “It's not just about us as students, it's about the community,” she said.

As women practiced techniques across the studio floor, instructors and volunteers encouraged participants through drills designed to build confidence, awareness and quick decision-making under pressure.

Castillo encouraged women to trust their instincts, avoid distractions in potentially dangerous situations and prioritize creating space from threats whenever possible.

Colleen Merlo, CEO of the Association for Mental Health and Wellness, said programs like the seminar can help women feel both physically and emotionally stronger.

“There is such a strong tie between physical health and mental wellness,” Merlo said.

The event highlighted the growing connection between physical activity and mental wellness.

He also spoke candidly about how martial arts transformed his own life emotionally.

“Martial arts was my mental salvation,” Castillo said. “I developed so much empathy, and I'm so much happier as a person because I can protect myself.”

Merlo said anxiety and depression remain among the most common mental health challenges facing Suffolk County residents, particularly young people.

“We are seeing a high rate of anxiety and depression, especially among young people,” she said. “We want people to know that they don't have to suffer alone, that help is available.”

The organization provides support groups, services for people with chronic mental health conditions and veteran support programs.

Longtime martial artist Jordan Chen reflected on how martial arts helped shape her own confidence and sense of safety and how women can gain through martial arts training.

“Mental health is a really important part of daily living and daily function,” Chen said. “I think building confidence is one of the key things that we learn in martial arts."