We the People Warwick has begun preparations for part 2 of its “You Are Not Alone” mental health series. This follows the well-attended “Foundations for Healing” forum held at Mountain Lake Park on Nov. 10, 2022.
The first planning session is scheduled for Feb. 28 from 7:00-8:30 p.m. via Zoom. Both interested residents and mental health professionals are invited to join the facilitated planning session and can email WethePeopleWarwick@gmail.com for joining details. The forum itself will take place during daytime hours on April 29 at the Mountain Lake Park Lodge. Exact times to follow.
Beverly Braxton, founder of We the People Warwick, said “The significant attendance and positive feedback we received from the November mental health forum validates the need for this work. That forum featured nineteen speakers from different community sectors and mental health support organizations. We broke the ice and began the difficult process of dismantling the stigma associated with mental health issues. We now must move on to extend the conversation and continue the work to address the specific mental health needs here in Warwick.”
The plan for the April 29 public forum is for participants to discuss ways the community can work together to improve prevention of mental illness and promote mental health and well-being. Topics will include: recognizing the symptoms of various disorders, suicide prevention and intervention, the intersection of mental health and substance use, mental health treatment (levels of care, local resources, and providers), and perspectives on the current youth mental health crisis.
Braxton encourages participation by the entire Warwick Township community, noting that “Mental Health issues in our communities, particularly for our youth, are complex and challenging. But we can come together to increase our understanding and raise awareness. We can make a difference.”
We the People Warwick asks that you email them at WethePeopleWarwick@gmail.com if you have questions, are eager to share an idea or are interested in joining the Zoom planning session.
If you wish to show your support with a donation, you can go to https://wethepeoplewarwick.org/donate
Barbara Hyde
Warwick, NY