LOCAL ORGANIZATION INVITES COMMUNITY TO CELEBRATE WITH FITNESS THEME
TriCity Family Services, a trusted partner in raising awareness and offering counseling and emotional wellness programs for children, teens, families and community members in Central Kane County, invites the community to celebrate Mental Health Month in May.
Mental health conditions are real and prevalent. With the increased focus on physical well-being in our society, this year’s theme, Fitness #4Mind4Body, balances mind and body. According to TriCity Family Services’ Clinical Director Jules O’Neal, the two are more connected than ever, which is why mental health is now thought to be part of the regular routine of wellness, much like exercise, balanced eating and sleep. “I recently had a teen client wonder why mental health assessments weren’t part of yearly health requirements for schools, like physical and dental exams,” said O’Neal. “Stress shows in the body in multiple ways … we should continue to see wellness as holistic and multi-faceted.”
Due to the increased awareness of the importance of physical and mental health, the stigma around mental illness and treatment has begun to slowly decrease. At TriCity Family Services, clients are talking openly with friends about their treatment. Even the world of politics, entertainment and sports has become vocal, with everyone from Prince Harry, swimmer Michael Phelps, and singer Demi Lovato opening up about personal mental health struggles.
In Kane County, community leaders have become advocates for mental well-being, including radio personality Scott Mackay (95.9 The River), who has spoken publicly about past counseling experiences with TriCity Family Services. “Nurturing your mental health is as important as taking care of your physical health … they go hand in hand,” says Mackay. “When it comes to my own mental health, I am not afraid to admit when I need a tune-up. Never think you are alone … if you need help, reach out.”
During Mental Health Month, TriCity Family Services has a number of initiatives to raise awareness. In addition to local government issuing proclamations at City Council meetings, trees in the St. Charles and Geneva business districts will be tied with lime green ribbons, the official color for mental health. Geneva’s 318 Coffeehouse will offer a signature beverage, a Kiwi and Mint Lemonade Shake-up, for the month of May. And various other strategies will be implemented throughout the month using social media, website and media platforms.
To learn more about mental health, or to schedule an appointment, visit www.tricityfamilyservices.org or call (630) 232-1070.
Photo Caption:
TriCity Family Services’ Board of Directors Secretary Gail Krawczykowski (left), St. Charles Mayor Raymond Rogina and TriCity Family Services’ Executive Director Laura Poss (right) during the official St. Charles City Council Meeting issuing the official Mental Health Month Proclamation.
