Health

“Dancing through the Ages”

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Hundreds of people of all ages are expected to join County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) officials, mental health experts and consumers for a celebration commemorating May as Mental Health Month.

The annual event will take place Saturday, May 5 from 11 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Embarcadero Marina Park North near Seaport Village. This year’s theme is “Dancing through the Ages: Good Mental Health is Ageless.” It is free and open to the public.

“It’s important for San Diegans to have as much information as possible about the early signs of mental illness and what services are available to treat the problem,” said Chairman Ron Roberts, County Board of Supervisors.

The event is an opportunity for the County and its partners to let the public know there is help available to treat and overcome a mental illness. It will offer a variety of activities and resources.

Event participants will enjoy laughter yoga sessions, inspiring dance performances, and exhibit which will include art from the County’s Edgemoor Healing Hearts program. Research has shown dance helps in the treatment of psychological and mental health problems.

The County funds 13 local mental health clubhouses, places where people with a mental illness can go to rebuild their lives, get employment assistance, establish and meet goals, build confidence, make friends, and have fun.

The celebration will also include a resource fair. In addition, event participants will also share their stories of recovery from mental illness and talk about how stigma impacted their lives and kept them from getting treatment.

“The fear of stigma can keep people from getting help for themselves or a loved one. All of us play a role in helping people recover from a mental health disorder and help them lead happy and successful lives,” said Nick Macchione, Director of HHSA. Mental health is just one focus of the County’s “Live Well, San Diego!” initiative, a 10-year project to build better health throughout the region.“

For more information about this year’s mental health event, visit the May is Mental Health Month website or call Velia Fematt at (619) 584-5086.                  

José A. Álvarez is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office. Contact