Fitchburg recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month

Member of the community, elected officials and local agencies gathered in the lobby of City Hall on Tuesday to commemorate May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This event was the result of a collaboration between the Fitchburg Health Department, Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, Compass Clubhouse and Community Health Connections to raise awareness about mental health, provide resources for the community and reduce the stigma surrounding behavioral health issues. 

Sue Christensen from the Fitchburg Health Department Outreach & Prevention welcomed the guests and introduced the following individuals who gave remarks: Elizabeth Walsh, Constituent Services Director, Office of Senator John J. Cronin; Rebecca Hess, Legislative Aide, Office of State Representative Michael Kushmerek and Sally Cragin, City Councilor and Director of BePawsitive Therapy Pets and Community Education. Member of the Fitchburg Police Department Community Outreach Team were also acknowledged. 

Stephen L. DiNatale, Mayor of Fitchburg read a proclamation highlighting the importance of mental health awareness, concluding with “I, Stephen L. DiNatale, do hereby proclaim May 2023 as Mental Health Month in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. As the Mayor, I also call upon the citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, and schools in Fitchburg to recommit our community to increasing awareness and understanding of mental health, the steps our citizens can take to protect their mental health, and the need for appropriate and accessible services for all people with mental health conditions.” 

The attendance by two therapy dogs from BePAwsitive Therapy Pets and Community Education was a highlight to the day. A resource table will remain in the lobby of City Hall through May 31, 2023. From 11am-1pm daily, a representative will be present to answer questions and provide resource information, courtesy of the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, Compass Clubhouse and Community Health Connections. Compass Clubhouse has provided green ribbons that can be worn to symbolize support of mental health awareness and residents are encouraged to stop by and to pick up a ribbon.