The month of May has been observed as Mental Health Awareness Month since 1949. On Wednesday, the women who participated in SAY Detroit’s monthly Wellness Wednesdays seminar and luncheon were treated to a special educational wellness event that was far from clinical — thanks to dynamic guest speaker Alan Johns.
Johns, a social worker who leads the mental and behavioral health program at the SAY Play Center at Lipke Park, empowered the group of 20 by providing tools to help them on their journey to become the person they want to be for themselves.
“Have compassion for yourselves,’’ he said. “When old thoughts are knocking on the door, allow new thoughts to enter.’’
Johns’ presentation was so engaging that Wellness Wednesdays facilitator Maia Campbell concentrated on taking notes.
“For me, the main takeaway is that depression, stress, fatigue, confusion and anger are all symptoms of larger mental health issues, and we shouldn’t be defined by our symptoms,’’ Campbell said. “The three steps to mindfulness are one, be present; two, be aware; and three, be intentional.
“This was such a valuable session. Alan was phenomenal.’’
The next Wellness Wednesdays’ seminar and luncheon is set for June 15 at SAY Play. Although the main topic will be the health benefits of skincare self-care, the support group will also celebrate the one-year anniversary of the program. Happy Birthday to us! Registration is required by calling 313-758-6100.
