September 24, 2024
Media Contact: Kathy Lamm, KathyLamm@vdh.virginia.gov, Phone: 757-799-8699
Norfolk Department of Public Health to Host Youth Mental Health Movie Event – “Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness” and Panel Discussion at Regal Cinemas, MacArthur Center
NORFOLK, Va. –The Norfolk Department of Public Health will host a free preview screening of Ken Burns’ powerful documentary, Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness, followed by an engaging panel discussion of Norfolk’s top youth mental health experts. Free and open to the public, the Norfolk Department of Public Health hopes to bring awareness to youth mental health with this special event on World Mental Health Day, October 10.
Event Details:
- Date: October 10
- Time: 6 – 8 p.m.
- Location: Regal Cinemas at MacArthur Center, Norfolk
- Admission: Free (Reserved ticket required)
- Tickets available: NorfolkPublicHealth.com
Mental health among youth is a critical concern, and recent statistics from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) highlight the urgency of the issue. According to NAMI, nearly 1 in 5 adolescents aged 13 to 18 are affected by a mental health disorder each year. Furthermore, suicide is the third leading cause of death for individuals aged 10 to 24, underscoring the need for increased awareness and support.
“Addressing youth mental health is a priority for our community,” said Director of the Norfolk Department of Public Health Susan Girois, M.D. “By coming together and engaging in open dialogue, we can break down the stigma surrounding mental health and equip our young people with the support they need to thrive.”
The documentary Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness offers an unvarnished look into the daily challenges faced by young people struggling with mental health issues. Through intimate portrayals of their lives, the film tackles critical themes such as stigma, discrimination, and the urgent need for public awareness and dialogue.
Following the screening, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion featuring mental health experts, advocates, and community leaders. This discussion will explore the film’s themes, address the complexities of mental illness, and promote constructive conversation around public policy, research, and educational efforts.
Parents, students, teachers, counselors, and anyone who works with youth are invited to join us in this important conversation and to help foster a more supportive environment for our young people. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that every young person in our community has access to the mental health support they deserve.
Reservations: Tickets for the event are free but must be reserved in advance. To secure your ticket, please click here.
Explore our self-help mental health resources at NorfolkPublicHealth.com
If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This service provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org.
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