Your Say: May 17-23, 2018
An Easy Story to Navigate
Kudos to J. Alex Knoll for that very wonderful and clear May 10 article on the expansion of the Severn River Bridge. I had no idea of how they were expanding the bridge. I thought they were expanding the bridge itself. The idea of reducing the widths of existing lanes and using the shoulder of the eastbound lane to create a new fourth eastbound lane is real genius. The inclusion of the diagram in the article was perfect, as I could read the explanation and check through the diagram. These types of articles are what make the Bay Weekly so wonderful. Thank you.
Learn about Teen Mental Health at Women’s Health Expo
One in five children between the ages of 13 and 18 will have a serious mental illness, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. In addition, 50 percent of all lifetime cases of mental illness began at an early age. Each of us very likely knows an affected family or teen.
Recent school shootings have highlighted mental health concerns. But families are the key to bringing mental health out of the shadows with conversations based on compassion and love. In addition, family members can set the stage to work with schools and community groups to lessen the stigma of mental illness.
Our community must be creative in meeting and addressing mental illness. For example, why not encourage our teens and schools to set up clubs that offer a safe place to have conversations with peers, plan events and empower students, while serving as a bridge to students exhibiting behavioral problems.
This year, the Calvert County Commission for Women, the Health Department, CalvertHealth Medical Center, College of Southern Maryland and its Kids’ & Teen College and Barstow Acres Children Center are collaborating to increase awareness and provide information to address behavioral and mental health issues affecting Calvert County families.
Join us this year to help our neighbors heal by linking with local resources that can increase your understanding of the issues and learning the latest warning signs and initiatives to promote mental health awareness.
Dr. Laurence Polsky of the Calvert Health Department will discuss behavioral health programs and teen depression. Sonia Hinds with the Barstow Acres Children will provide information on mental health issues facing teens today.
The fifth annual Women’s Health Expo May 19, 9:30am-12:30pm, also offers blood pressure, osteoporosis, skin cancer, hearing and dental screenings, all at the College of Southern Maryland, Prince Frederick.