“Get Connected” in May and Boost Your Mental Health - May 12

Press Release

From: Mental Health Association of Augusta

Donna H. Gum, Executive Director


“Get Connected” in May and Boost Your Mental Health

The Mental Health Association of Augusta Challenges the Citizens of Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta this May to the Mental Health Connection Challenge

In observance of 2008 May is Mental Health Month, Mental Health Association of Augusta is encouraging all residents of Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County to build their social support networks throughout May to improve upon how we all deal with the stress of living in a 24/7 on-the-go society. The MHA-A is challenging all citizens to the Mental Health Connection Challenge by making FIVE positive and life-fulfilling connections this month. Research shows that social networks can reduce stress and promote overall health by providing a sense of belonging, self-worth and security.

“We all need to maintain positive connections to feel a part of our communities and families, which is why this May, Mental Health America is challenging every American to connect to family & friends, coworkers, community members and professional help, if needed,” said MHA-A Executive Director, Donna Gum. “Years of research have shown that individuals who feel valued and cared for are better equipped to deal with stress and adversity and even experience less severe illnesses than those with little social support. We encourage those who have a mental illness, their family, and friends to attend the local National Alliance on Mental Illness, We Care monthly meetings. For more information, contact the MHA-A at 886-7181 / 949-0169 or mhaa@ntelos.net”

Local MHA-A activities include our Spring Newsletter, 13th Annual Pete Giesen MHA-A Golf Tournament, displays at the Bookstack and local libraries, Get Connected billboard on W. Beverly St., and radio PSAs and interviews. Our membership drive continues as we create an awareness to uplift the importance of mental health in our daily lives by educating the public.

Mental Health America’s Mental Health Connection Challenge:

* Connect To Family & Friends – Loved ones are an important source of support and encouragement. Talk to them when you need extra help, allow them to provide guidance and be prepared to help them when they need you.

* Connect To Coworkers – Given the amount of time we dedicate to work, healthy

relationships with coworkers are a must. Spend a lunch hour with officemates or reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while to take a walk or grab coffee.

* Connect To Community Members – Shifting from your own issues to the needs of others can be a healthy change of pace. Select a faith-based organization, school, long-term care facility or non-profit group that needs your help and pitch in.

* Connect To Yourself – Taking time for yourself can decrease stress and improve health and relationships. Try meditating, exercising, enjoying a hobby or reading a book. Whatever you choose, it’s your time, so spend it doing something you enjoy.

* Connect To Professional Help – If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope, reach out to a mental health professional. For a referral to local services, contact your local MHA-A, 886-7181 / 949-0169 or mhaa@ntelos.net.

Mental Health America founded May is Mental Health Month 50 years ago to raise awareness about mental health conditions and the importance of mental health for all. This year’s theme, “Get Connected” is focused on the important role social connectedness plays in maintaining and protecting mental health and wellness.


As Americans observe 2008, May is Mental Health Month and National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day, the Mental Health Association of Augusta asks families to recognize and promote their children's mental health and overall development through increased communication, guidance and emotional support. The theme for this year's Mental Health Month is "Get Connected" to emphasize the important role of social relationships in protecting and improving mental health and building resiliency. Research shows that children who feel warmth and caring from their parents are more likely to be successful in school, less anxious and depressed, and have higher self-esteem than those without.

"Having supportive relationships in our lives is essential for success, happiness and, perhaps most importantly, how we deal with adversity," said David Shern, Ph.D., president & CEO of Mental Health . "This is especially true for children. By supporting their mental and emotional needs, parents and other family members can help children think clearly, develop socially, learn new skills, build self-esteem and develop a positive mental outlook."



Here are some easy ways for families to "Get Connected" and build their children's mental health:

Give unconditional love - Children need to know that your love does not depend on their accomplishments

Nurture confidence and self-esteem - Praise and encourage your children. Set realistic goals. Be honest about your mistakes and avoid sarcasm.

Encourage play - Play time is as important to a child's development as food. Play helps children be creative, develop problem-solving skills and self-control, and learn how to get along with others

Enroll children in after-school activities - This is a great way for kids to stay productive, learn something new, gain self-esteem and have something to look forward to during the week. If they are home alone, check in on them after school. Children need to know that even if you're not there physically, you're thinking about them, and interested in how they spend their day.

Provide a safe and secure environment - Fear can be very real for a child. Try to find out what is frightening him or her. Be loving, patient and reassuring, not critical.

Give appropriate guidance and discipline - Be firm, but kind and realistic with your expectations.

The goal is not to control the child, but to help him or her learn self-control.

Communicate - Make time each day to listen to your children and talk with them about what is happening in their lives. Share emotions and feelings with your children.

Get help - If you're concerned about your child's mental or emotional health, consult with teachers, a guidance counselor or another adult who may have information about his or her behavior. If you think there is a problem, seek professional help right away. For more information, contact your local Mental Health Association at 886-7181 / 949-0169 or mhaa@ntelos,net

For information on local parenting workshops, support, and tips, call the Central Shenandoah Valley Office on Youth at 540-942-6757

Mental Health founded May as Mental Health Month 50 years ago to raise awareness about mental health conditions and the importance of mental health for all. This year's theme, "Get Connected" is focused on the important role social connectedness plays in maintaining and protecting mental health and wellness.