UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Understanding mental health has never been more important. Life can be tough, and many of us face challenges like stress, grief, and even addiction. To help tackle these issues, Penn State Extension is hosting a free “Mental Wellness Series” this May. This six-part series is perfect for anyone who cares about mental health, including family members, social workers, teachers, and even college students.

Here’s a quick look at what the series offers:
- Helping Others in Distress (May 5, 11 a.m. – noon): Learn how to support friends or co-workers in distress. You’ll discover effective ways to approach them and self-care tips to help you manage your own stress.
- Emotional Overload (May 12, 11 a.m. – noon): This session teaches self-help strategies for managing anxiety and depression. You’ll explore how to distinguish between productive and unproductive stress and learn about common thought patterns that can lead to negative feelings.
- Understanding Addiction (May 14, 11 a.m. – noon): Dive into the science of addiction and hear personal stories from those affected. Understanding the brain’s role in addiction can provide crucial insights into its impact on mental health.
- Fostering Mental Health in Youth (May 16, 11 a.m. – noon): This session focuses on guiding young people through tough times. You’ll learn effective ways to listen and provide support, helping youth build their resilience.
- Grief and Loss Every Day (May 19, 11 a.m. – noon): Explore the stages of grief and learn how to support yourself and others through life transitions.
- Building Resilience (May 21, 11 a.m. – noon): Discover how to enhance your resilience and apply it to personal challenges, equipping you for tough situations ahead.
Each session is an opportunity to gain practical tools tailored to real-life situations. Registration is required to access the webinars, and you can catch up through recorded sessions if you miss any.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness each year. This statistic highlights the need for resources and support systems like those offered in this series. As social media trends increasingly emphasize mental wellness, it’s clear that many people are seeking connections and strategies to manage their mental health more effectively. Discussions on platforms like Twitter and Instagram suggest a growing awareness about the importance of mental health, encouraging communities to support one another.
For more details, visit the Penn State Extension website.
Check out this related article: Navigating Mental Health Within Law Enforcement: Understanding Challenges and Solutions for Our Communities
Source link