Healthy Adams County (HAC) will be partnering with local agencies to host Mental Wellness Day at the Adams County Farmers Market on Saturday May 16 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Gettysburg Rec Park. This family friendly event aligns with Mental Health Awareness Month and is intended to raise awareness about critical mental and behavioral health resources available in the community while promoting other important wellness exercises.
This event will feature an interactive mural art activity, kids and adult yoga, wellness screenings, and free 10-minute therapeutic massages by A Massage to Remember. All activities are free.
Introspection Horsemanship will be there with their pony, Mushu, to help demonstrate the benefits of holding space with an equine. There will be a brief introduction to Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Learning.
Kathy Gaskin, Executive Director of Healthy Adams County talks about the reasoning for this event, “The Behavioral Health Task Force of Healthy Adams County has planned this event and sees it as an opportunity to educate the community about local resources and provide opportunities for the community to try out some different wellness activities while enjoying the farmer’s market,” she said.
Support for Mental Wellness Day comes from the Gettysburg Hospital Foundation.
Over twenty organizations and agencies offering mental health resources will be in attendance, including Respective Solutions Group, WellSpan Health, TrueNorth Wellness Services, York/Adams MHIDD, and Whispering Soul Equine Healing.
Because the event also aligns with the weekly Adams County Farmers Market, mental health resources that benefit local farmers will also be highlighted. “The relaxing and community-oriented atmosphere at the market makes it a perfect place for an event like this,” said Market Manager Reza Djalal. “Many customers say their visits to the market have a positive impact on their mental wellbeing.”
“The Mental Wellness Day at the Market provides a convenient opportunity to learn about and explore local resources to support mental health needs.” said Jen Baney, local therapist, and chair of the Behavioral Health Task Force for HAC. “The day intentionally incorporates wellness events such as art and yoga so that everyone can reflect on their own aspects of wellness and identify how to better engage in their own self-care.”