Children’s Mental Health Week

May is National Mental Health month and this week it is specifically Children's Mental Health Week, celebrating children and their families. My husband and I have worked, volunteered, or simply participated in events held annually during this week for the past 14 years, if not longer! I have met the nicest and coolest people through these programs.

This year, there will be Public Forums throughout the week addressing issues such as the needs for children and youth with emotional issues and/or chemical dependency, service needs for adults with mental illness. Tuesday is movie night, a workshop for parents, caregivers, providers, and teens that will explore feelings, relationships, etc. using film as a tool for open discussion. Friday is Family Fun night at Bowdoin Park, an outdoor event featuring potluck supper, games, and plenty of fun. A magic show will also take place during the picnic. Plus, on Friday from 5-7 attend the opening of the art exhibit "Imaginartion" a mixed media art exhibit at the Mid-Hudson Heritage Center, Mental Health America participants will have their artwork on exhibit throughout the month of May!  For more information, and how to register for these events, click here.

All activities for Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week are free unless noted….and are sponsored by the Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week Planning Committee: Astor Community Based Services, Dutchess County Dept. of Mental Hygiene, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Mental Health America of Dutchess County, Taconic Resources for Independence and Concerned Community Members.