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RUMFORD — A free suicide prevention and awareness program is one of several events being held in the area in support of Mental Health Month. Every living human has mental health, which is a person’s condition regarding their psychological, emotional and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood, said a news release from the National Alliance of Mental Illness-Maine.
This month, several area organizations are spreading awareness of information, resources and support, and have increased advocacy efforts to help improve life for persons living with mental health problems and their families, friends and caregivers whose lives are directly impacted by their conditions.
NAMI Western Mountains Maine affiliate, along with the Farmington and Mexico NAMI support groups, are sponsoring a free suicide prevention and awareness program for parents, community groups, businesses and school staffs, as well as anyone else interested in the topic, from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 23, at Mountain Valley High School. Several area mental health agencies will have displays at the event.
On Saturday, May 27, there will be a car wash at the information booth in Rumford to raise money to help bring mental health events, speakers and programs to the area.
NAMI Youth Mental Health First Aid courses will be offered on Tuesday, June 20, at Franklin Memorial Hospital in Farmington and on Tuesday, June 27, at the Rumford Point Church in Rumford Point.
One out of about every four adults experiences a mental health condition every year, according to the release. One in 20 lives with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. A mental health condition isn’t the result of just one event. Research suggests multiple interlinking causes, including genetics, environment and lifestyle, which combine to influence whether one develops a mental health condition. A stressful job or home life makes some people more susceptible, as do traumatic life events. Biochemical processes and circuits as well as basic brain structure may also play a role.
Some 50 percent of mental health conditions begin by age 14; 75 percent by age 24. The normal personality and behavior changes of adolescence may cover for symptoms of a mental health problem. So, early treatment and support are crucial. Meaningful roles in social life, school and work are very possible.
For information on local resources and efforts, contact NAMI Western Mountains, ME affiliate (Oxford and Franklin counties) representatives Dottie at 364-2197, Sue at 418-7904 or Louise at 592-9933. If there are specific mental health needs and wants for programs, NAMI education classes and speakers, please let one of the contacts know for scheduling and outreach purposes.
