MALONE — As part of Mental Health Awareness Month three events are planned to promote wellness and help connect community members to resources in Franklin County.
In May events are planned in Malone and Tupper Lake, according to Sarah DiOrio, director of behavioral health person centered services at Community Connections of Franklin County.
A mental health and wellness fair in Malone will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday in Arsenal Green Park, while the health and wellness event in Tupper Lake is scheduled for the following weekend, Saturday, May 23, a fair will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the municipal park on Demars Boulevard in Tupper Lake.
DiOrio said Community Connections is hosting the events in partnership with the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition and an event to promote mental health awareness has been held for around the past 10 years in Malone.
“There’s going to be informational tables, vendors and face painting,” she told the Telegram, “There will be music and the Malone Village Police will be grilling hot dogs for the public and the food is free. There are going to be activities at certain tables for people to participate in for little prizes. It’s a lot of information sharing and connecting.”
Additionally, DiOrio said next week on Wednesday, May 20, North Country Community College will host a Suicide Awareness and Training event from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in Malone.
As part of next week’s event, DiOrio said Caleb Mihill of Lake Placid will be on hand to present a short film “Check-in” that has to do with mental health, social media and its effects on teenagers.
“It will provoke some emotions but it’s not gruesome or anything. It is very professionally done, and he did an amazing job,” she said, “Right after his presentation we are going to be offering a QPR training.”
According to DiOrio, QPR stands for question, persuade and refer, and is a utilized program for suicide prevention.
“It’s something we thought we could add to the mix. We try to do two QPR trainings a year and sometimes they aren’t well attended so we thought maybe the combination of Caleb with the training would draw in a bigger crowd,” she explained.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, Community Connections is reminding individuals and families that they are not alone and that reaching out for help is a powerful and courageous step forward, according to a press release from the local non-profit.
“Mental health challenges can affect anyone at any time, often bringing uncertainty, stress, andisolation. During these difficult moments, it’s important to remember that support is available, and seeking assistance is not a weakness, it is a sign of strength,” the release reads. “Staff at Community Connections are able to provide compassionate support, guidance, and resources for those navigating mental health services, facing life transitions, or simply needing someone to talk to, according to the press release, which urges community members to take time to check in on themselves and others.”
According to Community Connections, the organization offers: Assistance accessing services, understanding available options, and connecting individuals with the tools they need to manage and overcome challenges, and its mission is to “empower individuals by ensuring they feel supported, informed, and valued every step of the way.”
“If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out or call 988. Help is here and no one has to face difficult times alone,” the release states.
For more information or to connect with a staff member, call Community Connections at 518-521-3507.