Transforming Connections: Discover Mental Health Resources at the Courthouse Fair

On a rainy Saturday, over two dozen mental health providers gathered in front of the Delaware County Courthouse for the Mental Health Fair. Their goal? To reduce the stigma around mental health and remind everyone that they’re not alone.

This fair, co-sponsored by ZenCare Express and State Representative Jennifer O’Mara, has been running since 2021. O’Mara started this initiative following her father’s tragic suicide when she was just 13. She aims to create a supportive space where mental health is openly discussed.

David Laughead, the CEO of ZenCare Express, noticed last year’s fair could be more community-oriented. “We wanted to bring people together and make resources accessible,” he said. His organization serves Delaware County residents and provides various services aimed at mental well-being.

Laughead founded ZenCare Express after witnessing the struggles of loved ones coping with mental health issues. “Mental health is health,” he stated. “We deal with emotions every day, and that shouldn’t be ignored.” He hopes the fair continues to raise awareness about mental health challenges.

Representatives like Rose Rice, O’Mara’s district director, emphasize the importance of connecting people to mental health resources. “Many avoid talking about mental health due to stigma,” Rice noted. She hopes the fair helps break that barrier.

The fair also honored the memory of Hallie Jackson, a local teen who tragically lost her life to suicide. Her mother, Christine Jackson, attended to promote awareness. “We want young people to know there are adults who care,” she said, highlighting the need for a supportive network.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about 1 in 5 adults in America experiences mental illness each year. This statistic underscores why events like this fair are crucial. They create a community where resources are not just available, but people are encouraged to reach out for help.

Fitness also played a role at the fair. Jennifer Warriner Eskridge, founder of Cardi Yo Fitness, aimed to connect mind and body through exercise. “Movement is medicine,” she shared. “It’s healing for both the body and mind.”

County Council Member Christine Reuther attended, expressing strong support for mental health initiatives. She pointed out the vital need for more funding in Delaware County, especially as current budgets do not meet the increasing demand for mental health services.

Local awareness campaigns and community gatherings are more important now than ever, particularly as public interest in mental health grows. The Mental Health Fair is just one example of how collective efforts can help destigmatize mental health and provide necessary support.

As Laughead reminded everyone, “You are not alone. It takes a village, and Delaware County is here to support you.”

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