Vermont Business Magazine On October 10th , Vermonters will join others across the world to recognize World Mental Health Day, designed to enhance awareness, reduce stigma, highlight services, and promote advancements in mental health.
The event is drawing special interest this year, as the pandemic has highlighted that mental health is fundamental to well-being and the need for services is great.
“I think it’s fair to say we all feel the stress and anxiety the pandemic has brought into daily life,” said Emily Hawes, Commissioner of the Vermont Department of Mental Health. However, Hawes says she remains optimistic. “There is much greater recognition of the need to provide quality mental health services for everyone. We’re breaking down stigma. We’re gaining understanding that, just like physical health, anyone can experience mental health challenges and can benefit from support.”
The theme for this year’s event, Mental health care for all: Let’s make it a reality, is an opportunity for government leaders, civil society organizations, and others to talk about what they’re doing to improve upon and develop services, and what more needs to be done to make those services more inclusive.
The Howard Center, the Designated Mental Health agency in Burlington, is hosting a series of free events which are easily accessible by registering here.
The series features authors and clinicians hosting a variety of conversations with Q&A sessions following each talk.
It’s important to note that events for awareness are not just a call to action for professionals and those in need of treatment.
World Mental Health Day can also serve as a reminder to check-in on our own mental wellbeing, and that of friends, neighbors, and family members. It’s a good excuse to pick up the phone, send a message, or otherwise reach out.
Engaging with community and offering a helping hand serves all parties involved. Vermont’s network of community-based designated agencies is available to provide crisis services, guidance, and referrals for individuals in need of treatment.
A full list of those agencies, as well as numerous other services provided both locally and nationally, can be found on the Vermont Department of Mental Health’s website.
Remember, Vermonters Are With You. Reach out and connect with other Vermonters.