NORRISTOWN — Children First and Healthy NewsWorks are hosting a community event in Norristown on Thursday, May 23, to talk about mental health help for Montgomery County children and youth. Children, teens, families, and community members are invited to attend the free event. Dinner will be provided.
According to Children First, Pennsylvania kids from all walks of life suffer from nearly the same rates of general anxiety and depression, as well as more intensive issues of suicidal thoughts. Four out of ten PA students report feeling sad or depressed most of the time; 16% report planning suicide and 12% have attempted suicide.
Because children and teens spend most of their time in school, having qualified staff who can offer mental health support in schools just makes sense, according to Children First. But what would that look like — and where would the funding come from?
“How We Heal: Youth Mental Health Film Screening and Panel Discussion” will show a 20-minute film developed by students that shows how people can heal from mental health challenges and trauma. A panel featuring a student, a parent, an educator, and a mental health professional will follow the screening.
The location is the MCIU at 2 West Lafayette Street in Norristown. The event will take place on Thursday, May 23, and the doors open at 5 p.m. and the program begins at 5:30 p.m.
Registration by May 17th at childrenfirstpa.org/heal52324 is preferred. Walk-ins are also welcome depending on seating availability.
