President Barack Obama was the first president to proclaim Mental Health Awareness Month in May. As part of this initiative, Cooley Dickinson Healthcare hosted a mental health awareness fair May 20 partnering with the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Western Massachusetts.
The program began with a proclamation from Mayor David J. Narkewicz, read by Councilor Gina-Louise Sciarra. Councilor Marianne Labarge was also present.
Cooley Dickinson’s CEO, Joanne Marqusee, welcomed guests. Hospital staff, volunteers, members of the Family Support Group and the Behavioral Health-Anti Stigma Committee all rolled out the red carpet for attendees.
Police Chief Jody Kasper and Lt. Craig Kirouac spoke about crisis intervention. They clearly understand the value and importance of that training and dedication is heartfelt.
I offer thanks to the Department of Mental Health for coming out on a Saturday to talk about its programs. Members of the Starlight Center, a clubhouse that helps people get back on their feet and to work again, also supported the fair.
Education can help stamp out stigma. To learn more about mental illnesses, visit www.nami.org.
Ella Lee Smolenski
Florence
The writer is a member of the Patient Family Advisory Council of Cooley Dickinson Healthcare and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Western Massachusetts.