Local mental health workers connect to bring awareness

May 02--Mental Health providers, suppliers and supporters will unite for a special gathering May 7 at Albert Gettings Annex Building.

They will be there to spotlight National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day. The purpose is to make sure children are able to get help for mental health disorders with the same urgency as any other health condition. The emphasis is on positive mental health being essential to a child's healthy development from birth.

The Lawrence County Mental Health and Development Services group joins organizations and communities around the country in bringing mental health needs of America's youngest citizens to the forefront. It is a day to advocate for effective mental health services for children.

Mental Health Specialist Albert Antonelli said the concept is to bring together people who share the same goals.

Antonelli said the program will begin with 10 a.m. walk from the top of hill to the Gettings Building. It will be followed by a meet & greet.

National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day is focused on students from preschool through high school. Depression, anxiety, autism and attention deficit order are among the topics to be discussed.

Mental Health providers will be available to explain the services they provide.

Representatives from several schools in Lawrence County will take part.

"The message is to let everyone know that it's okay to talk about this stuff," said Debbie Wiech, counselor for grades 5 through 8 in the Ellwood City Area School District.

(Email: d_burcham@ncnewsonline.com)

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