Tag: mental health

VDH and VHHA Announce the Release of Virginia’s Plan for Well-Being

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 9, 2026
Media Contact: Maria Reppas, Maria.Reppas@vdh.virginia.gov

VDH and VHHA Announce the Release of Virginia’s Plan for Well-Being

RICHMOND, Va. – Today, as part of the Partnering for a Healthy Virginia Collaborative (PHV), the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association (VHHA) announced the release of the next State Health Improvement Plan, also known as the Virginia Plan for Well-Being (VPfWB). The comprehensive plan serves as a data and community-driven roadmap to improve health outcomes, advance equity and ensure that all Virginians live in conditions that allow them to thrive. This second version of the VPfWB builds on best-practice models. The 2025–2029 VPfWB focuses on six key priority areas identified through statewide data assessment and community input, including:

  • Infant mortality,
  • Firearm-related deaths,
  • Obesity,
  • Mental health,
  • Drug overdose and substance use disorder, and
  • Housing, transportation and economic stability.

These priorities reflect the most pressing health issues and preventable drivers of poor health outcomes in Virginia identified by our community. In launching this milestone plan – centered on what is most important to Virginians’ health – we will reconvene the partnership to engage on strategies designed to create lasting impact.

“Achieving the shared goal of making Virginia the healthiest state in the nation requires a comprehensive approach focused on effective strategies to enhance individual and community health,” said Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association (VHHA) President and CEO Sean T. Connaughton. “Virginia’s hospitals and health systems are actively engaged in efforts to reduce infant mortality rates, address behavioral health needs, enhance access to care, and support the communities they serve so people can live healthy, safe, and productive lives. Those ideals are central to the mission of the Partnering for a Healthy Virginia Collaborative, and we are proud to be part of this important work.”

The VPfWB reflects a collaborative effort across public health, healthcare and community partners. PHV collected data to better understand the health of Virginians. The assessment helps stakeholders and partners understand why some people are healthy and others are not. The plan will serve as a blueprint for targeted action driving meaningful change and improving health outcomes across Virginia.

“Our health isn’t just shaped in hospitals and clinics. It is also forged in the places where we’re born, grow, live, learn, eat, play and pray,” said Virginia State Commissioner Dr. Cameron Webb. “If we understand why some people live long and healthy lives while others do not, we can be more strategic in developing actions and policies to address these challenges.”

At its core, the VPfWB is a commitment to advancing health equity. The plan recognizes that health outcomes are shaped by long-standing differences in access to resources and opportunities. It prioritizes reducing disparities and ensuring that all Virginians have the opportunity to achieve optimal health by:

  • Addressing social determinants of health including housing, transportation and economic stability.
  • Reducing disparities in health outcomes such as infant mortality, chronic disease and access to care.
  • Strengthening community partnerships and elevating community voice.

The plan is designed to deliver measurable progress across the state by:

  • Clearly defining goals, objectives, and strategies.
  • Using data to track progress over time.
  • Aligning with local and regional health improvement efforts.
  • Ongoing evaluation to ensure strategies and metrics are effective.

This structured approach ensures that partners can adopt the plan and track outcomes, adapt strategies, and collectively work toward improved health indicators. VDH will work with partners to implement these important priority areas by establishing working groups that will align work with priority areas, strengthen partnerships and provide opportunities for ongoing stakeholder feedback. During the implementation phase VDH and its partners will focus on translating strategy into action, ensuring that the plan drives real, measurable improvements in communities across Virginia.

All Virginians are encouraged to take simple, meaningful steps to support their health and well-being, including staying up to date on check-ups and vaccinations, prioritizing mental health, and making healthy lifestyle choices such as eating well and staying active. Families can support healthy starts for children by accessing prenatal care and following safe sleep practices, while communities can help prevent substance misuse by promoting awareness and safe medication practices.

Virginians are also encouraged to get involved locally by participating in community health improvement efforts, supporting community organizations, and advocating for equitable access to resources like healthcare, housing, and economic opportunities. Organizations, stakeholders, and partners play a critical role by aligning programs and investments with the VPfWB priorities, using shared data and metrics to guide decision-making, collaborating across sectors to address root causes of health disparities, and engaging communities in the design and implementation of solutions. Together, these collective actions will drive measurable improvements in health outcomes and help build a healthier Virginia for all.

For more information and resources about the VPfWB, visit VirginiaWellBeing.com. The site provides detailed information about the plan and how you can help us make Virginia the healthiest state in the nation.

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March 31, 2026
Media Contact: Dwight Richards, Population Health Manager,
757-514-4740, Dwight.Richards@vdh.virginia.gov.

Western Tidewater Health District to Celebrate National Public Health Week with Series of Community Events

SUFFOLK, Va. – The Western Tidewater Health District (WTHD) will sponsor a series of activities April 6–10, 2026, in recognition of National Public Health Week. This annual observance highlights the achievements of public health, addresses current challenges, and looks ahead to opportunities for building a healthier future for all.

This year’s National Public Health Week theme, “Ready. Set. Action!”, reflects the importance of taking action to improve health outcomes for all.

We invite the media to join us for the health leaders’ discussion on Monday, April 6, 2026, 9 a.m. – Noon, where health systems and local health leaders will talk about the needs, challenges, and opportunities to improve health across the district.

“Better health happens when patients, healthcare providers, and public health professionals work together and understand what the community needs and the challenges individuals face.,” said District Health Director Angela Tillery. “When we recognize these needs and use our resources we can reduce illness, expand access to care, and build healthier, stronger communities.”

The week’s events include:

Monday, April 6 – Health and Peacebuilding
A panel discussion focused on community healthcare needs, challenges, and opportunities.
Location: 135 Hall Avenue, 3rd Floor, Suffolk
Time: 9 a.m. – Noon

Tuesday, April 7 – Terrorism Awareness & Stop the Bleed Trainings
Each participant will gain knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively to bleeding emergencies.  Everyone will receive a bleeding control kit to support immediate emergency response efforts.

Location:  Southampton Health Department, 26022 Administration Center Drive, Courtland
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Isle of Wight Health Department, 919 S. Church Street, Smithfield
Time: 10 a.m.
Location: Franklin City Health Department, 200 Fairview Drive, Franklin
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Suffolk Health Department, 135 Hall Avenue, Suffolk
Time: 2 p.m.

Wednesday, April 8 – Free STI/HIV Testing
Free walk-in STI/HIV testing will be available at all Western Tidewater Health District clinics, including Suffolk Health Department, Franklin Health Department, Isle of Wight Health Department, and Southampton Health Department. ID cards required at registration.
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 9 – Mental Health Marketplace
In collaboration with Western Tidewater Community Services Board, the health district will host a Mental Health Marketplace that includes an “End the Stigma” interactive, Suicide Prevention, and other informational tables focused on mental health awareness and strengthening community connections.
Location: 135 Hall Avenue, Suffolk, VA  23434
Time: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Friday, April 9 – Building an Inclusive Health Workforce
WTHD will focus on staff development initiatives that empower employees to effectively advocate for and support clients, as well as community-based organizations, in their efforts to improve health outcomes.

By working together, we can ensure that everyone benefits from stronger, healthier communities. For more information about these events, please contact the Western Tidewater Health District at 757-514-4740

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Hibernate Healthy: The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Gives Tips to Combat Substance Use Disorder This Winter

February 6, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov.

Hibernate Healthy: The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Gives Tips to Combat Substance Use Disorder This Winter

WARRENTON, Va. –  Winter is often a time of reflection and resolution, but for some, it’s a time when substance use increases. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District reminds the community that substance use disorder (SUD) is a critical issue highlighted during this time of year, particularly as individuals and communities set intentions for improvement and recovery.

Winter months often bring unique challenges that can increase the risk of drug use. Shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and reduced opportunities for outdoor activities can lead to feelings of isolation and seasonal depression. Social gatherings and celebrations where substances may be present can create an environment where individuals are more vulnerable to relapses or misuse. Understanding these risks is essential for developing strategies to maintain sobriety and support overall well-being during this season.

“Every life lost to overdose is a tragedy that ripples through families, schools, and workplaces,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “Our commitment to prevention, treatment, and recovery remains strong, and we urge everyone to learn how to recognize and respond to an overdose, especially during the winter months when stress and isolation can increase risk.”

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District share tips to stay resilient:

  • Stay connected with friends, family, and recovery groups.
  • Anticipate high-risk situations and rehearse responses.
  • Set boundaries for social events.
  • Remain aware of personal triggers that are brought on by large social gatherings, especially when alcohol is served.
  • Substance use struggles often happen together with mood disorders like depression or anxiety increasing vulnerability during stressful times in winter.
  • Maximize daylight exposure, ensure proper sleep, exercise regularly, and eat balanced meals.
  • Replace substance-related habits with comforting alternatives like tea, journaling, or meditation. Use journaling to identify patterns and act early on warning signs.
  • Join support groups or volunteer to boost mood and structure.
  • Connect with professional help if needed.

If you have drug or alcohol concerns, mental health struggles, emotional distress, or just need someone to talk to, call, text, or chat the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. A trained crisis worker can provide immediate help 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you have questions about SUD, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at (www.rrhd.org).

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VDH and VDBHDS Encourage Virginians to Care for Their Mental Health During Winter Weather

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – February 5, 2026
DBHDS Contact: Lauren Cunningham, lauren.cunningham@dbhds.virginia.gov
VDH Contact: Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Virginia Department of Health and Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services Encourage Virginians to Care for Their Mental Health During Winter Weather

RICHMOND, VA – As temperatures remain low and travel is impacted across Virginia, many Virginians might be experiencing feelings of stress, loneliness, isolation, or tension at home. The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) and Virginia Department of Health (VDH) want to remind people to check in with themselves and those they love and reach out for help.

“Seasonal affective disorder – sometimes described as the ‘winter blues’ – is a real mental health condition that can affect anyone no matter their age, race, gender, or background,” said Virginia Health Commissioner, Dr. Cameron Webb. “Just as we prepare for winter storms to protect our physical health, it’s important to take steps to protect and support our mental health.”

Shorter daylight hours, colder temperatures, and reduced opportunities for outdoor activities can lead to feelings of isolation and seasonal depression. If you or someone you know are experiencing thoughts of suicide, mental distress, substance use disorder, or need emotional support, call or text 988. 988 is a three-digit calling code for mental health crisis in Virginia. By contacting 988, you can get free, immediate help from a trained crisis worker 24/7, whether you would like emotional support, are worried about a loved one, or are considering harming yourself. To learn more about 988, visit 988va.org. In December 2025, Virginia 988 received over 36,200 calls, 3,900 chats, and 3,700 texts from individuals seeking help for themselves or a loved one.

“The winter months can bring moments of isolation, seasonal depression, and increased substance use,” said Daryl Washington, LCSW, Commissioner, DBHDS. “No matter who you are or where you live, 988 is here for you as an easy way to quickly connect with the support you need. It’s more than just an easy to remember number: it is a direct connection to compassionate and accessible care, when you need it the most.”

Mental Health Virginia offers a peer-run Warm Line for people not experiencing crisis, but who would like someone to talk to, or who request community mental health resources, or who have specific questions about their recovery journey. The peers who answer the Warm Line listen with compassion and provide non-judgmental support. You can call or text the Warm Line at 866-400-6428 Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends and holidays.

You can also follow these practical tips from DBHDS to support mental wellness when spending more time indoors:

  • Stay physically active with indoor workouts, stretching, or yoga.
  • Schedule regular virtual or phone check‑ins with friends or family.
  • Take short breaks from screens to rest your mind and reduce fatigue.
  • Keep your living space tidy to reduce stress and promote a sense of control.
  • Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness.
  • Maximize time in rooms with natural light and sit in direct sunlight when practical.
  • Balance indulgence in comfort foods with healthy fruits and vegetables that provide energy and digestive health.
  • For those with children in the home, create visual schedules for the day that include times for activities, meals and snacks, and quiet/free time.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or intimate partner violence, there is help available. Contact the Virginia Family Violence & Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-838-8238 or the LGBTQ Partner Abuse and Sexual Assault Helpline at 1-800-356-6998. If you are not able to call, text 804-793-9999. If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

Abuse is a pattern of behavior used to gain power and control and can include physical abuse or emotional abuse. In addition to seeking help, VDH offers some strategies to keep you and your family safe:

  • Identify a safe room: Find a room or area that you feel safe to go to in an argument. Be sure this space has no accessible weapons. Consider rooms with available exits to the outside.
  • Keep Your Cell Phone Accessible: Keep your cell phone charged and with you at all times. Keep a charger nearby.
  • Keep a Go Bag Ready: Keep a go bag with essential that you can grab and go quickly. If you are concerned that your partner will find the bag, keep it at a friend or family member’s house. Item to include in your go bag:
    • Essential documents and photos,
    • Medication and food,
    • Extra money
    • Change of clothes,
    • Extra keys, and
    • Extra charger for your phone.
  • Take A Break: As safely as you can, find moments to spend outside. It is very difficult to remain inside all the time, especially if you feel building pressure in your relationship. When weather conditions make it safe to do so, take advantage of opportunities to run errands, take a walk, or just get out of your home.
  • Consider Children: If you have children in the home, you must consider them as well.
    • Set up Code Words: Set code words or signals with your kids so you can communicate with them discretely to go into another room or call for help.
    • Practice Staying Calm: Talk to your kids about things that make them feel safe when they’re stressed out. Create a set of activities or practices they can do if they’re feeling stressed, scared, or overwhelmed.

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We All Have a Role to Play in Making Suicide as Preventable as Possible

September 10, 2025

Media Contact: Rachel Dumene, Rachel.dumene1@vdh.virginia.gov, 540-480-4998

We All Have a Role to Play in Making Suicide as Preventable as Possible
September is Suicide Prevention Month

STAUNTON, Va. – September 10 is Suicide Prevention Day. It’s a time to raise awareness, remember those we’ve lost, and strengthen our connections. The Central Shenandoah Health District (CSHD) invites you to join us by sharing resources that can save lives. Together, we can help prevent suicide.

Suicide remains a leading cause of death in Virginia. In 2023, 1,234 Virginians lost their lives to suicide. 50 of those deaths occurred within the Central Shenandoah Health District.

“Mental health is a vital part of our community’s wellbeing,” says Dr. Allison Baroco, Acting Health Director for CSHD. “There are resources available for anyone who might need help, and it’s important to know you are not alone.”

Here are some ways to get involved during Suicide Prevention Month:

Take the free Counseling on Access to Lethal Means (CALM) training to learn about limiting access to guns, medications, and other items that could cause harm. You can also access free, custom guidelines and resources from Lock & Talk Virginia.

For more on suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention, reach out to the VDH Suicide Systems Project.

Mount Rogers Health District Launches Mobile Units to Expand Health Services

July 1, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, Mount Rogers Health District 276-781-7450

Mount Rogers Health District Launches Mobile Units to Expand Health Services

MARION, Va. — Local officials, health professionals, and community partners recently gathered at Marion Senior High School to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of two new mobile health units that will bring essential services directly to communities across all eight localities of the Mount Rogers Health District.

The two mobile units were funded through a multi-year grant from the Opioid Abatement Authority (OAA) and represent a collaboration between all eight localities in the district as well as the Mount Rogers and Highlands Community Services Boards. The partnership to obtain the motorized vehicles mark a major step in addressing the region’s ongoing challenges related to substance use, behavioral health, and access to care.

“These units enable us to meet people where they are, especially in areas where transportation, stigma, or scheduling conflicts have made it difficult for individuals to access traditional clinic services,” said Dr. Meagan Helmick, Health Director for the Mount Rogers Health District.

Each mobile unit will be jointly staffed by the Mount Rogers Health District and Community Services Board personnel and will provide a wide range of services, including:

  • HIV, hepatitis A, B, and C, and STI testing
  • Harm reduction services (naloxone distribution and fentanyl/xylazine test strips)
  • Immunizations
  • Hepatitis C treatment
  • Mental health and substance use counseling
  • Psychiatric medication management
  • Referrals and wraparound case management

The region served by the Mount Rogers Health District has long faced elevated rates of substance use disorder, hepatitis C, poverty, and overdose burden compared to the rest of the state. In 2021 alone, the eight localities represented had a combined economic burden from opioids of nearly $96 million. The mobile units reflect a data-driven, community-informed response that emphasizes prevention, education, and connection to care.

Since the recent launch, health officials continue to refine operations as they learn during each stop. The program aims to be both responsive and sustainable, with services billed through existing clinical systems and continued pursuit of additional grant opportunities.

“This is just the beginning,” said Dr. Helmick. “We are deeply hopeful about what this can mean for individuals and families across our region.”

To learn more about the mobile units, including the staff and schedule for each, visit www.MRHD.org and click on “Integrative Health Servies-Mobile Unit.”

Mount Rogers Health District Highlights Achievements in 2024 Annual Report

January 30, 2025
Media Contact: Brianne Kilbourne, 276-781-7450

Mount Rogers Health District Highlights Achievements in 2024 Annual Report

MARION, Va. – The Mount Rogers Health District (MRHD) has unveiled its 2024 Annual Report, spotlighting a year of significant progress in improving community health and well-being across its eight localities. The report underscores the district’s ongoing commitment to addressing pressing public health challenges while fostering collaboration with community partners.

The report highlights a range of clinical achievements, including the administration of more than 7,000 immunizations, which played a critical role in preventing vaccine-preventable diseases. Through the Every Woman’s Life program, 173 women received essential screenings for breast and cervical cancer, offering life-saving early detection. Additionally, the Oral Health program expanded its reach to over 1,100 students, a nearly 200% increase from the previous year. These efforts reflect MRHD’s focus on equitable access to preventive healthcare services.

In response to the opioid epidemic, MRHD made substantial strides in substance use disorder prevention. The district’s REVIVE! training educated over 810 participants on recognizing and responding to overdoses, while more than 1,800 doses of naloxone were distributed to those in need. Comprehensive Harm Reduction services, which support individuals at high risk of overdose, reached 578 participants, offering life-saving resources and a pathway to recovery.

Emergency preparedness efforts were another cornerstone of MRHD’s work in 2024. The district earned the prestigious Project Public Health Ready designation, highlighting its robust readiness to address public health emergencies. Medical Reserve Corps volunteers contributed over 970 hours of service, providing critical support during both emergency and non-emergency events. Training initiatives, such as CPR and Stop the Bleed programs, equipped community members with essential skills to save lives in critical situations.

Programs supporting family and child health also made a significant impact. The BabyCare program conducted over 1,400 home visits, offering personalized support to 225 mothers and infants. Meanwhile, the Child Safety program provided 309 free car seats, accompanied by hands-on education, to families across the district. These initiatives underscore MRHD’s dedication to nurturing the health and safety of future generations.

MRHD also conducted a comprehensive Community Health Assessment (CHA) across its eight localities, gathering feedback from over 1,600 residents. This process identified key health priorities, including mental health, obesity, substance use disorders, and access to care, which will shape the district’s future strategic planning and health improvement efforts.

Promoting health equity remained a central focus throughout 2024. The district launched a Spanish-language phone line to improve access for non-English-speaking residents, handling over 100 calls since its inception. The health equity team also attended more than 70 community events, ensuring resources and services reached underserved populations.

Health Director Dr. Meagan Helmick reflected on the district’s accomplishments: “The 2024 Annual Report demonstrates Mount Rogers Health District’s steadfast dedication to protecting and promoting the health of our communities. From addressing the opioid epidemic to enhancing emergency preparedness, our team continues to respond to the evolving needs of our residents.”

For the full Annual Report or more information about MRHD services, visit the district’s website at Virginia Department of Health – Mount Rogers Health District.

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Scheduling Primary Care Appointments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 29, 2025
Media Contact: Bryan Hooten, 804-807-1727, bryan.hooten@vdh.virginia.gov

Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Encourage Community Members to Make
Regular Primary Care Appointments

RICHMOND, Va. – Richmond and Henrico Health Districts reminds community members of the importance of regular primary care appointments. Resources are available for individuals without insurance coverage. “Connecting with a primary care provider is essential for families, especially those with young children, as it ensures regular health monitoring, vaccinations, and preventive care,” said Richmond and Henrico Health Districts Child Health Advisor Becca Bruhl. “A trusting relationship with a primary care provider allows for coordinated care, chronic disease management, and timely support for both physical and mental health concerns.”

RHHD recommends the following resources for finding providers that match your insurance status.

  • Visit rhhd.gov/connect-pc for a list of primary care providers in Richmond and Henrico that accept Medicare, Medicaid, and patients without insurance. Some of these providers also accept private insurance.
  • Search for local physicians that accept Medicaid at vamedicaid.vaxix.net/Search.
  • See RHHD’s School Health Hub for information about school-required immunizations and physicals, school health resources, and much more.
  • RHHD offers the following tips for community members making primary care appointments.

Verify that your health insurance is accepted by the provider before your visit.

  • If you do not have health insurance, visit rhhd.gov/connect-pc to find options for patients without insurance.
  • Bring your insurance card to your appointment if you have insurance.
  • Bring current medications and vaccine records to your appointment.
  • Minors should usually bring a parent or legal guardian to their appointments.

Participants in the Richmond and Henrico 2024 Community Health Assessment named ‘Access to Health Care’ as a top concern. A primary care physician can either directly treat or provide a referral for treatment for issues connected to the three priority areas chosen by the Community Health Improvement Plan Steering Committee:

Richmond and Henrico each have a better ratio of population to primary care physician than Virginia and the U.S., according to County Health Rankings and Roadmaps data from 2021.

For more health and safety information, please visit rhhd.gov and sign up for RHHD’s monthly newsletter at rhhd.gov/news.

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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

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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