Maintaining a consistent work-life balance amid the hustle and bustle of today’s fast-paced society is important, including a healthy emotional lifestyle. That is why Kennesaw State University (KSU) and WellStar Health System sponsored New Horizons: Mental Health Symposium for Community Members on Saturday, May 11. The event was free and open to the public at Prillaman Hall on the KSU campus.
Attendees had the opportunity to listen to speakers on topics ranging from substance abuse and opioids to mental health stigma among diverse populations. They obtained information about mental health resources and services from several local organizations who were on-site as exhibitors. Mental health assessments on depression and anxiety were available in English and Spanish.
The symposium was hosted by Cobb2020 and Live Healthy Douglas, partnerships of community organizations dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles and improving the delivery of essential health services in Cobb County and Douglas County, respectively.
“Often, mental health fairs provide access to providers, but do not meet the needs of community residents, particularly regarding the understanding of the common conditions and behaviors. The goal of the symposium is to increase awareness in the general public and provide the necessary tools to help support them in taking charge of their mental health.”
Dr. Monica Nandan, Professor of Social Work, and Director of Strategic Partnerships and Social Impact at KSU
Dr. Nandan said that the idea for the symposium grew out of the Cobb & Douglas Behavioral Health Workgroup (BHWG), which is part of Cobb2020 and Live Healthy Douglas. The workgroup’s main purpose is to implement strategies for enhancing the quality of behavioral health services in Cobb and Douglas counties. They accomplish this by developing and supporting various initiatives, such as hosting this symposium, the first of its kind targeting the unique needs of the local communities.
“Mental illness and substance abuse disorders vary greatly across different population groups,” said Dr. Nandan, current co-chair of the BHWG. “The high rates of suicide and death due to overdose can be prevented if we enhance understanding not just among providers, but the general public as well.”
Event attendees were grateful for a community event that offered accessibility, education, and resources all in one location. One attendee stated, “I think this event has been incredibly informative and is needed.” Numerous attendees expressed their thanks and are looking forward to more of these types of community events to come in the future.
About The Cobb Collaborative
The Cobb Collaborative is a membership of non-profit organizations, local government, businesses, faith-based organizations, educational institutions, professional organizations, associations, and citizens who share ideas, expertise, and resources to meet the needs of Cobb County and its citizens.
