Suffolk County Women's Advisory Commission Hosts Powerful Symposium on Mental Health and Substance Misuse

On Tuesday, May 12, 2026, community members gathered at the H. Lee Dennison Building in Hauppauge for an important event. The Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission, led by Stacey Ann Caggiano, the Suffolk County Executive Office of Women's Services Director with support from Chairwoman Kristen Alfano and Vice Chair Sharon Richmond, hosted a symposium focused on addressing mental health and substance misuse challenges for families, workplaces, and veterans. Attendees included representatives from organizations, county officials, employees, and citizens, all committed to improving support for those in need.The panel was moderated by Chris Kelly, Executive Director of the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (LICADD), and featured a distinguished group of voices: Adam Birkenstock, Director of Programming at LICADD; Megan Dwyer, Director of Labor Education at Community Services Agency; and Brent Russell, Director of Veteran Services at the Mental Health Association of Nassau County.

Early in the program, the moderator asked how many attendees knew someone struggling with mental health or substance misuse. Nearly every hand was raised, evidence of the importance of these conversations.

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Panelists outlined the range of services available in the county, emphasizing the need to tailor support for veterans and families. They highlighted that services are effective only when accessible. The discussion focused on removing barriers, raising awareness, and ensuring families know where to seek help. The conversation became more collaborative when Marcelle Leis, Director of Veteran Affairs for Suffolk County, joined the panel from the floor.

A highlight of the day was when Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine and Deputy Silvia Diaz addressed attendees. They spoke candidly, sharing personal experiences and reaffirming their deep commitment to this cause. Their message emphasized unity, encouraging collaboration between county employees and community organizations to foster kindness, care, and shared purpose.County Executive Romaine sent a simple message: if you are in Suffolk County, you are never alone. This event reflects the county’s commitment to supporting its residents.

Stacey Caggiano is planning further outreach, including another event in the fall. By fostering open dialogue and connecting families to available resources, Suffolk County continues to strengthen its community. The county executive encourages partnerships to help Suffolk reach its full potential.

The Suffolk County Women’s Advisory Commission is composed of women appointed by their respective Suffolk County legislators, brought together to identify and address issues affecting women across the county. The Commission works to make recommendations to improve services, strengthen connections between resources, and ensure that the people in our communities, no matter where they live, have access to the support they need. Events like Tuesday’s symposium are a direct reflection of that mission in action.

Lori-Ann Novello is the Executive Director of the Lindenhurst Community Cares Coalition (Lindy Cares), a 501(c)(3) prevention coalition serving the Town of Babylon.