Unlike the past, this generation has access to the latest information about mental health.
The key today is “application of that information,” says the Rev. Marvin T. Smith, keynote speaker for “Mental Health Awareness in the Black Community,” a symposium set for 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday at Buena Vista Community Center, 1940 South Outer Drive.
Awareness is growing that mental health treatment may extend far beyond placing a loved one in an asylum, notes Smith, pastor of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church, whose latest book is, “The Pandemic: How My Faith Was Challenged, but Not Changed.”
Even with the increased understanding, says Smith, African Americans too often avoid seeking help and treatment because a mental condition may be seen as a stigma, a sign of weakness. Problems are made more severe through fear of racial biases in a criminal justice system that sometimes wrongly punishes mental illnesses
“People need to know that they still can lead productive lives (with mental health concerns),” Smith says. “There are resources available.”
Mental health has become a more prominent issue nationwide and in Saginaw, with plans for a multi-million center using federal and state funds that will focus on “behavioral health.” A local community-based dramatic play, “The Family Car,” also deals with dilemmas that are involved.
Scheduled panelists to join Smith on Saturday are:
- Pamela Pugh, state K-12 Board of Education president and former Saginaw County Public Health outreach manager.
- Dr. Delicia Pruitt, County Public Health medical director.
- Melvin McDowell, social worker with McDowell Healing Arts Center.
- Twannie Gray, social worker with Solutions Behavioral Health Specialties.
- Wardene Talley, County Mental Health wraparound supervisor.
- Ashley Jones, psychiatrist.
- Kareem Bowen, pastor of The Potter’s Touch and host of KISS 107’s “Straight Talk.”
- Ron Frierson, pastor of New Covenant Christian Center.
The symposium’s sponsor and organizer is Hosanna Lifeskills Center, which offers mental health services and substance abuse counseling. Admission is free of charge.
