In recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month, the Union County Board of County Commissioners invites Union County residents to participate in “A New Me in 23 – Advocating for Your Self-Care,” an interactive Zoom session presented by Lynette Sheard on Tuesday, May 23, 6:00 p.m – 7:00 p.m.
The event is free of charge but pre-registration is required online for the Zoom link, at ucnj.org/MentalHealthAwareness.
“Mental Health is a topic that should be focused on all year and as part of my “Stepping Up to Mental Health” initiative within my 2023 Chairman’s “Building a Stronger Union County” theme, we decided to put forward this insightful event that connects our residents with Ms. Sheard’s expertise and dedication to mental health advocacy,” said Union County Commissioner Chairman Sergio Granados. “We encourage all Union County residents to help overcome the stigma that has traditionally surrounded mental health, and learn new strategies that lead to a positive, supportive environment for individuals and for the whole community.”
“A New Me in 23 – Advocating for Your Self-Care” will explore self-advocacy and skill development that boosts self-confidence, and provide a space for exchanging ideas for healthy coping strategies. Participants will be able to:
- Define Self Advocacy
- Navigate effective communication that promotes your pursuit of optimal wellness
- Strategize ways to better articulate individual needs to maintain emotional wellness
Lynette Sheard is a Community Education Coordinator at the Mental Health Association in New Jersey, Director of the award-winning NJ Mental Health Players, and a sought-after award-winning facilitator and staff development trainer who utilizes multi-module creative techniques to educate the community at large.
Ms. Sheard’s unique, dynamic approach to mental health education and advocacy combines her work in the field of mental health with her skills as a professional performer, producer and director.
She has worked with the Mental Health Association for over 18 years as a senior employment specialist, job coach, and a staff development trainer. She was awarded Professional of the year by the Association of Persons with Supported Employment, for her work with individuals with disabilities and mental illness. She is certified by Mental Health America as a trainer of Mental Health First Aid for adults, older adults, and youth. In addition, she is certified in, Suicide Prevention, Psychiatric Advance Directives, and trauma informed care.
“A New Me in 23 – Advocating for Your Self-Care” is presented through the Union County Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse in the Division of Individual and Family Support Services, under the Department of Human Services.
For more information on the Office on Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse, visit online at https://ucnj.org/dhs/obhsa/
For information on all Department of Human Services activities, visit online at ucnj.org/dhs or call the Action Line, 908-677-5405.
For information and updates on Union County COVID-19 services visit ucnj.org/covid19.
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For all Union County programs and services visit ucnj.org, call the Public Info Line, 877-424-1234, email info@ucnj.org or use the online Contact Form.
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