May 13, 2019
Oneida County Raising Mental Health Awareness Throughout May
Oneida County is participating in national Mental Health Awareness Month in May through informational programs and free depression screenings.
The Department of Mental Health will be joined by Upstate Cerebral Palsy’s Community Health and Behavioral Services Center and the Neighborhood Center at the Utica Public Library from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on May 14 to distribute information about mental health programs and to offer free depression screenings. A similar session was previously held on May 7 at the Jervis Public Library in Rome.
The Oneida County Office Building in Utica will also be lit up green in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month.
“One in five American adults experiences mental illness in a given year,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “While this May marks the 70th year of Mental Health Awareness Month, we must fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for equal care every single day. Taking action and raising awareness of mental health conditions can break down obstacles and improve the chance of recovery. Everyone can play a part in making a difference.”
Mental Awareness Month was developed by Mental Health America and has been observed in May since1949. This year’s theme of #4Mind4Body is exploring the topics of animal companionship, spirituality, humor, work-life balance and recreation and social connections as ways to boost mental health and general wellness.
The Oneida County Department of Mental Health promotes the quality of life and emotional well-being of people experiencing psychological, developmental or addictive difficulties by advocating, encouraging and coordinating innovate, barrier-free delivery of responsive, community-based services in a dignified and respective manner.
For more information on the services it provides and for mental health resources please visit http://www.ocgov.net/mentalhealth.
If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis or emergency call the Mobile Crisis Assessment Team (MCAT) at 315-732-6228.
