WEST HARTFORD, Connecticut – Faith leaders and mental health advocates are joining forces in West Hartford to educate the community about the problem and explore possible solutions.
West Hartford’s first community conversation on mental illness drew dozens of people to Westminster Presbyterian Church Sunday night.
Those who came had the opportunity to learn, collaborate and brainstorm ways to help friends and loved ones who are struggling.
“This mental health situation, it’s a crisis,” said Susan Barney of Bloomfield. “I’ve got some family members that I’m very concerned about, so I want to learn more so I can help them and reassure them that they’re going to be okay.”
Barney was part of a group on Sunday night that came together in an effort to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.
Advocates say these struggles are all too common.
“1/5 of Americans at any given time are dealing with some sort of mental health condition,” said Thomas Burr. CT Chapter, National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Burr addressed the crowd, sharing his own family’s story to open the door for dialogue.
“Mental health is part of physical health, and it’s okay not to be okay. It’s just not okay not to reach out when you’re struggling because help is available,” Burr said.
For some people, he says, the church is where they turn when they need help.
“It’s important for the people who are leading these faith communities to have an understanding of mental health and what resources are available so that they can provide that kind of support,” Burr said.
“It’s something we’re working on and hoping to lean into,” said Julie Emery, pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church. “To have an opportunity to talk about mental health and reduce stigma and give people a chance to connect with each other and just build community.”
Organisers are planning another event for next February to keep the conversation going.
