Mental Health Events Planned For This Bay Area County

MARIN COUNTY, CA — May is mental health month and the County of Marin has announced a list of events to reduce the stigma and foster hope.

“Caring for others can take a real toll on mental health. But resilience, healing, and hope grow stronger when we come together,” said Dr. Todd Schirmer, Marin County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services director. “This May, we invite the community to connect, support one another, and help change lives.”

A series of free public events to promote mental health awareness will be put on by the Marin County Department of Health and Human Services Behavioral Health and Recovery Services department.

Despite some of Marin’s high health rankings, the county has seen elevated rates in suicide and substance abuse, according to a press release. Mental health conditions impact one in three children and one in six adults, the press release stated.

The Marin County Board of Supervisors formally recognized May as mental health month at an April 22 meeting, where a Novato student spoke about LGBTQIA+ mental health as well.

Here are some of the events Marin County has announced:

• The Power of Connection: Kevin Briggs & Kevin Berthia “In 2005, Kevin Berthia stood on the edge of the Golden Gate Bridge. After a 92-minute conversation with CHP Officer and Army veteran Kevin Briggs, he chose life. Together, they now share a message of survival, hope, and healing.”
• Monday, May 13 | 5-8 p.m.
• College of Marin, Kentfield, Room AC 255
• Free event with meet-and-greet, resource fair, and raffle prizes
• Register

• Nurturing the Nurturers: A Space for Healing “A wellness event hosted by Felton Institute, offering trauma-informed meditation and movement sessions for caregivers, first responders, and service providers.”
• Wednesday, May 14 | 1-4 p.m.
• Spirit Rock Meditation Center, Woodacre
• Register

For more events see the full list here.