Mental health is something many people struggle with quietly every single day.<\/p>\n
On Wednesday, Shelby County leaders brought the conversation to the forefront.<\/p>\n
\u201cMay is mental health awareness month, and we want to do what we can to reduce the stigma,\u201d said Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris.<\/p>\n
It was their first \u201cHealthy Shelby\u201d mental health town hall at Shelby Farms.<\/p>\n
The event connected residents with counselors, recovery programs, mental health professionals and community organizations.<\/p>\n
\u201cAnd to make sure that folks know there is access out there and there are places for them to go,\u201d Harris said.<\/p>\n
From depression to trauma to substance abuse. Speakers also talked about the connection between untreated trauma, mental health and violent crime in Memphis.<\/p>\n
Doctor Lucas Trautman said many young people involved in crime are still reachable and with the right support systems, their lives can change.<\/p>\n
\u201cSo much of what we have are people who are like one football coach away, one cheer squad away from making better decisions,” Trautman said. “So that gives me hope.\u201d<\/p>\n
Organizers said too many people suffer in silence. They simply don\u2019t know where to turn.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou are not alone. We want everyone to know that you are not alone,” Kyla Rice said. “There is plenty of help out here just in case you need it.\u201d<\/p>\n
For some attendees the event was more than just a town hall. It was a reminder that they don\u2019t have to face their struggles alone.<\/p>\n
\u201cSelf awareness is a big deal for me. Asking for help and not being silent\u00a0 because I think mental health is becoming an epidemic,\u201d Deion Stovall said.<\/p>\n