CHESTER COUNTY, Tenn. — May is a time to raise awareness of people living with mental health issues and help reduce the stigma that many experience.
One organization is doing just that.
This is a program of the Chester County Utah Agricultural Research Institute Family and Consumer Sciences Division.
Organizers say the goal is to educate the community through a research-based curriculum while providing a holistic approach to improving overall health.
University of Utah Extension, Chester County, held its first Family and Consumer Sciences Community Wellness Forum on Wednesday, May 22 in Henderson.
More than 50 community members attended the event, which centered around a holistic approach to living a healthy life.
“The goal of this is to give people an understanding of what wellness is at a basic foundational level, but also so that they can take something and incorporate it into their daily lives,” said Anna Nelson, UT Extension family and consumer science agent.
The panelists sat in front of the community and discussed various aspects of health, including physical, mental, financial and emotional health.
“A healthy community is a vibrant community, so I wanted to hear from experts on what it means to live well, apply it to my own life, and share it with my neighbors.” said Mark Cancia, United Way’s director of school and community engagement.
Participants also want to take away information and resources to see how it aligns with their work and how it benefits those they work with.
“In order for us to be able to focus on other people and meet their needs, our needs need to be met as well. I think the whole idea is making sure we’re in a healthy mental space so we can take care of other people and meet any needs they may have,” said Hannah Mead, regional supervisor for Tennessee Baptist Children’s Homes.
This is also an opportunity to introduce additional UT Extension FCS programs to help others learn more about the importance of holistic health.
Additional FCS classes will be offered next month, including sewing classes, cooking classes and food preservation and canning classes.
To learn more about programs and resources offered in your community, contact your local county extension office or contact your local FCS Extension agent.
To find your county extension office, here.
For more Chester County area news, click here.
