In Recognition of Minority Health Month, HEHS Chair Focuses on Mental Health during Countywide Conference

Prince George’s County Council Member Karen R. Toles (D) – District 7, in partnership with the National Association of Mental Illness, Prince George’s County Health Department, United Medical Center, Ivy Community Charities Inc. of Prince George's County, White Rose Foundation, and Jack and Jill National Harbor Chapter, will host the Changing Minds Mental Health Conference on Saturday, July 30, 2016, 9 a.m., at The Sanctuary at Kingdom Square, 9033 Central Ave in Capitol Heights, Maryland.

The conference will feature a panel discussion, and presentations by noted psychologists, emergency room physicians, health care providers and faith leaders. Participants will also have an opportunity to participate in question and answer sessions related to mental and behavioral health. Psychologist and author, Dr. D. Kim Singleton, will be on hand signing copies of her book “Broken Silence,” provided free to the first 100 registrants.

Council Member Toles, who chairs the Council’s Health, Education and Human Services Committee, is pleased to host the “Changing Minds Mental Health Conference” event.

“The state of mental health in our community is a longstanding issue that we need to start addressing,” said Council Member Toles. “Given today’s many stresses, our communities can use a safe space to dialogue and learn about the many mental and behavioral health resources available. Work and family life, grief, economic despair, abuse, and other challenges presented by daily living, can become overwhelming. This conference is an opportunity for residents to connect with caring people and resources for help.”

Prince George’s County Health Officer Pamela Creekmur noted the County’s commitment to providing mental health services for its residents.

“Prince George’s County is committed to providing a continuum of services to individuals with behavioral health needs, including mental illnesses,” said Creekmur. “It is our charge to see that there are an array of quality mental health services offered to individuals and families impacted by mental illnesses, and that any gaps in services are minimized.”

This Countywide event is free and open to the public.

WHAT:
Changing Minds Mental Health Conference - The State of Mental Health in the Minority Community

WHO:
Prince George’s County Council Member Karen R. Toles
Prince George's County Health Department
National Association of Mental Illness
United Medical Center
Dr. D. Kim Singleton

WHEN:
Saturday, July 30, 2016, 9am - 12 noon

WHERE:
The Sanctuary at Kingdom Square
9033 Central Avenue
Capitol Heights, Maryland 20743