City of Birmingham Encourages Self-Care During Mental Health Awareness Day on May 17
Birmingham, AL – In July 2024, the City of Birmingham will join community partners to present Mental Health Awareness Day in Linn Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Attendees will be able to engage with experts and discuss mental health, which is a topic many people are often reluctant to address. The event was originally set for May 17, but organizers had to reschedule due to rain in the forecast.
This year will be the third year Crystal Mullen-Johnson, a licensed clinical social worker and founder of Nurture Alabama, has co-hosted the event with the City of Birmingham to help dismantle the stigma around mental health.
“Mental Health Awareness Month is recognized nationally in May, which is a valuable opportunity to unite with others who share a common goal: to engage in open discussions about mental health and to provide support to those in need,’’ Mullen-Johnson said.
Said Mayor Randall L. Woodfin: “Mental health and wellness are too often ignored in our community. Mental Health Awareness Day is our chance to change that; it’s our opportunity to emphasize the importance of mental health.’’
“Please join us and take the time to learn, to embrace self-care, and to understand that you are worthy in every way.’’
Attendees will have access to mental health resources; enjoy local food trucks and a DJ; have a free depression screening; experience free massages, line dancing and other exercises; register for door prizes; and learn more about combating domestic violence. The YWCA Central Alabama Domestic Violence Services representatives will be on hand to provide information about its 24-hour crisis line, legal assistance, financial support and counseling. Also, Birmingham businesswoman and domestic violence survivor Selena Rodgers Dickerson is this year’s Mental Health Awareness Day Domestic Violence Ambassador, and she will be present to offer support and encourage people to access the resources.
Sometimes, when people are going through a difficult time, they would just appreciate a supportive conversation to discuss their hurt or pain, Mullen-Johnson said. But there are times when a friend, co-worker or relative on the receiving end does not know how to respond. Experts will be available to direct people on how to get help for themselves or others, she said.
Speakers on the stage will include:
- Alexandria Means, a domestic violence expert
- Beverly Johnson from the Alabama Department of Mental Health
- Dr. Hernando Carter, a general practitioner
Some of the interactive sessions will include:
- Activities for adults from the City’s Park and Recreation Department, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Depression screenings with Cherie May Edwards, a licensed professional counselor, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Mental health consultations with Lauren Packer, an associate licensed counselor, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Chair massages from Adrian Ward, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Line dancing with fitness instructor Tracy Williams, 11 a.m.
- Yoga therapist Jamella Strode leads session on how breathing techniques can help improve responses to trauma triggers, 12:30 p.m.
- A low impact sculpt class with fitness instructor April Mack, 1 p.m.
For more information, visit www.nurturebham.com
