Focus on Mental Wellness
Overview
Inspired by community feedback, the Town of Wake Forest will embark on a yearlong exploration of mental wellness issues and challenges. Throughout the year, we will host "Focus on Mental Wellness" workshops, fairs, and training sessions to raise awareness about mental wellness and share information about programs, services, and resources available to anyone suffering from untreated or undertreated mental illness.
"Expressive Arts Summer Series"
You're invited to join us for free intergenerational arts classes!
Bring your family together for a truly creative experience. Create your own music, paintings, poetry, ceramics, quilting, dances and more.
Discover how expressive arts can be therapeutic and foster meaningful connections across generations. Snacks provided. All ages are welcome.
Class are from 10 a.m.-noon at the Northern Wake Senior Center, 235 E. Holding Ave., on the following Saturdays:
May 4, 11, 19
June 1, 15, 22, 29
Registration is required either online or by calling 919-714-3854.
"Fear of Falling" Workshop
The Town of Wake Forest partnered with the Senior Center to offer this workshop - open to all, the seminar featured presentations by Credentialed Balance & Falls Professional Kristina Wolfe, Clinical Hypnosis Specialist Sharon Jackman, Assistive Technology Consultant Sarah Gachuz, and Director of Northern & Eastern Wake Senior Centers Jennie Griggs.
"Clearing the Air: Navigating COVID-19, Tobacco Cessation & Vaping Realities"
The Town of Wake Forest partnered with Wake County to host “Clearing the Air: Navigating COVID-19, Tobacco Cessation & Vaping Realities” on Thursday, Feb. 15, at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the use of e-cigarettes is unsafe for kids, teens, and young adults. Most e-cigarettes contain nicotine which is highly addictive and can harm adolescent brain development. Youth e-cigarette and cigarette use have also been associated with mental health symptoms, including depression. The February 15 workshop explored these, and other health risks associated with smoking and teen vaping.
The event featured a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Rasheeda Monroe MD of the UNC School of Medicine and Director of the Kenan Urban Scholars. Panelists will include Dr. Stefanie Etienne MD, Medical Director/Family Physician at WellCare of North Carolina; Bolu Abe-Latham, Physician Associate at the Duke Smoking and Tobacco Cessation Program; and Michael Scott, Program Manager at the Center for Black Health & Equity.
For more information, email Community Outreach Manager Andrew Brown, Jr.
Future Sessions
- May 18 - NAMIWalks NC - JOIN or DONATE to our team "Wake Forest Focused on Mental Wellness"
- May 20 - Isolation and Loneliness of our Seniors (2-7 pm TBD)
Education & Distribution of Narcan - Over the Counter Opioid Overdose treatment drug (TBA)
Mental Wellness Fair - Saturday, Sept. 28, 1-4 p.m., Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks St.
Mental Wellness Fair | 4th Saturday in September through 2026
Due to the overwhelming success & positive feedback from our Inaugural Mental Wellness Fair in 2023, the Town of Wake Forest is committed to hosting the fair annually through 2026 - and possibly beyond! This year's Mental Wellness Fair is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre. Free and open to the public, the event is designed to raise awareness about mental wellness and share information about programs, services, and resources available to loved ones who may be suffering from untreated or undertreated mental illness. Resources will be offered both inside and outside for this rain or shine event.
Applications will be accepted from vendor advocates and nonprofit organizations only. Food trucks have already been secured for this event, and no additional food vendors are needed.
Why "Focus on Mental Wellness?"
It is important for the Town of Wake Forest to "Focus on Mental Wellness" for several reasons:
Overall well-being
Mental wellness is crucial for individuals to experience and maintain a good quality of life. It helps people cope with stress, develop resilience, and have a positive outlook, all of which contribute to their overall well-being.
Public health
Mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, can have a significant impact on individuals and the community as a whole. By focusing on mental wellness, the town can address these issues, reduce the burden on healthcare services, and promote a healthier population.
Productivity and economic development
Mental wellness plays a crucial role in workforce productivity. When individuals are mentally healthy, they are more motivated, focused, and engaged, which ultimately benefits the local economy. Additionally, a town that prioritizes mental wellness can attract and retain businesses, as a mentally healthy community is more likely to be a vibrant and productive one.
Community cohesion
By prioritizing mental wellness, the town can foster a sense of community and social connection. Mental health initiatives can bring people together, create support networks, and reduce stigma surrounding mental health issues. This can lead to stronger community bonds and a more inclusive, supportive environment for all residents.
Prevention and early intervention
By focusing on mental wellness, the town can encourage prevention and early intervention efforts. Promoting mental health education, awareness, and access to resources can help identify and address mental health issues before they escalate, potentially reducing the need for extensive and costly treatments in the future.
In summary, prioritizing mental wellness in Wake Forest is essential for the overall well-being of individuals, public health, productivity, community cohesion, and prevention. It can improve the lives of residents and contribute to the town's development and prosperity.
Mental health education is important for raising awareness, promoting understanding, facilitating early intervention, improving well-being, preventing suicide, enhancing academic/workplace performance, and improving overall public health.