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Under the theme “Healing Through Connection,” San Mateo County commemorates Mental Health Month during May, where, with the help of Behavioral Health and Recovery Services (BHRS), they invite residents to a series of free events and to learn about ways to cope with stress, anxiety and loneliness, among other topics.
“Now more than ever, it’s important that we find ways to connect with each other,” said Jei Africa, director of BHRS. “This May, we encourage everyone to connect with others at one of our free public events, connect to resources, and connect with your community by participating.”
In January of this year, San Mateo County supervisors declared loneliness a public health crisis and pledged to promote social connection in local communities.
According to County Health's 2023 Community Health Needs Assessment, 45 percent of respondents reported experiencing difficulties with loneliness and isolation.
The events, which the Diversity Office has joined, include Magic Sensitibo, Magic Matapang! Suicide Prevention Training; a workshop that under the theme “Be Sensitive, Be Brave for Suicide Prevention,” seeks to teach how to act as eyes and ears in the face of suicidal distress and connect people who need help with the appropriate services.
This workshop will be held on Thursday, May 9, from 5 to 7 pm, online so you can register by giving click here.
This event is joined by “Healing Connections Open Mic,” a community-based event that seeks to promote mental and spiritual well-being through creative performing arts, such as poetry, spoken word, dance, or music.
Anyone interested in attending or performing at this event must complete the interest form. This will take place on May 11, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Assembly Hall of the Central Park Recreation Center at 50 E. 5th Ave., San Mateo.
“Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors” will be a keynote address given by an Alzheimer’s Association speaker who will share tips and strategies for caregivers to respond to common behaviors of people living with dementia, such as agitation, confusion, and more.
The event will take place on Tuesday, May 28, from 1 to 2 p.m., at the Menlo Park Library, located at 800 Alma St. in Menlo Park. Pre-register online or by phone at 800-272-3900.
To know all the events, click here.
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