Business owners, politicians and non-profit leaders in New Hampshire on Friday came together to tackle mental health issues. They said the isolation of the past few years continues to have ripple effects across society.The conferences dealt with mental health issues in Rochester, Somersworth and Dover, but organizers said the same issues were being addressed statewide. I believe it reflects…health, mental health? said her Michelle Sheppard, Granite YMCA President and CEO. “Undoubtedly the main problem is stigma around mental health,” Shepard said. Samatha Dyer, her senior at Dover High School, told Social she believes her media contributes to the mental health problems of her peers. “Young girls, young guys. They’re looking at these influencers and comparing themselves, and sometimes they can’t live up to their image, even if the image isn’t realistic,” Dyer said. . It’s a mental health issue. How do we make sure people are safe enough to say they need help and move on and get that help in the field?” Somersworth Mayor Dana Hilliard (D. Give someone the help they need.Sometimes all someone needs is an ear to listen.Suzanne Wheat of the Dover Mental Health Alliance says,”You’re just there to listen without criticizing.” ” he said.
Business owners, politicians and nonprofit leaders gathered in New Hampshire on Friday to address mental health issues.
Conference organizers said things were not getting better, even though the pandemic appeared to be waning.
The conference covered mental health issues in Rochester, Summersworth and Dover, but organizers believe the same issues are mirrored statewide.
“Are you going to support mental health, mental wellbeing?” said Michelle Shepard, Granite YMCA President and CEO.
There appears to be one major barrier to achieving that goal.
“Undoubtedly the main problem is stigma around mental health,” Shepard said.
“People are afraid to talk about it. People are afraid they’ll say it’s not real,” said Samatha Dyer, a senior at Dover High School.
Dyer said he believes social media contributes to his peers’ mental health problems.
“Young girls, young guys. They look at these influencers and compare themselves, and sometimes they just can’t live up to their image, even though it’s not even their actual image.”
For the mayor of Somersworth, Friday was a chance to take a step forward on mental health.
“How can we help people? How can we make sure people feel safe enough to say they need help and move forward and get that help in the field?” Mayor Somersworth said. Dana Hilliard (D) said:
Those at the conference acknowledged that the lack of mental health professionals can make it difficult to move forward, but anyone can help, as long as they care.
“You don’t necessarily have to be a clinician to actually give someone the help they need. Sometimes all someone needs is an ear to listen. Be there to listen without judging.” Only,” said Suzanne Wheate of the Dover Mental Health Alliance.
Organizers hope the conference will lead to better community care and continued discussion on mental health issues.
