KEEPING THE NEWS LOCAL & THE COMMUNITY CONNECTED.
VOLUME 3 EDITION 5
MAY 2022
LIVE
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LEARN
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WORK
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PLAY
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COMMUNITY UPDATES
Together for Mental Health: You Belong in Avalon Park The National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI, recognizes the month of May as a time for bringing awareness to mental health. The focus of the 2022 national movement is on the message of “Together for Mental Health.” By coming together, the Avalon Park community can help all of its members feel a sense of place and belonging and support a culture of strong mental health through the resources available. Abel Genoa, founder of Avalon Park based non-profit Projecthinkforward, says, “In our everyday lives, we assume that good mental health only has to do with internal feelings, but that is only the beginning. Our mental health is a mixture of multiple things, with living in a positive community being a main factor. Living in a place such as Avalon Park where you have the tools & outlets to express yourself in a positive way through many outlets. Making friends with likeminded interests, as well as exercising and using the many running paths we have all attribute to a positive lifestyle and mental health stability.” Feeling accepted and welcomed by being a part of a community is where a sense of belonging begins. Whether through civic groups, church groups, volunteering with a local organization, or just neighbors who say hi when they see you, having people around you who make you feel safe and comfortable is essential for optimal psychological well-being. A strong social network is one of those things that may not seem important but can make a big difference when life gets hectic. Having friends and family nearby who can provide emotional support can be a huge boon to your mental health. Furthermore, keeping up with your favorite people face-to-face instead of online keeps you present and connected to your community. It’s also good for them—keeping in touch with friends and family helps prevent depression. Groups like the Rotary Club of Avalon Park, the Avalon Park Kiwanis and Post 409 American Legion, are a great way to start building the strong social network. For a full listing of the
clubs and organizations in Avalon Park visit the online directory here and select the organizations category. Additionally, spending time with friends, family and neighbors is a great way to stay positive and healthy. Avalon Park offers many opportunities to do just that, from meeting up at a favorite local restaurant to getting together at one of the many community events, there are multiple ways to have healthy social interactions in the community. Access to mental health resources is also key. Projecthinkforward is a non-profit organization based in Avalon Park, offering sponsored therapy to those that cannot afford it. They also curate a regular podcast where different mental health specialists discuss various mental health conditions. As well as other forward thinkers in our community to discuss life skills, growth, and much more. Access the latest episodes online. Another key resource is the accessibility to mental health counselors and therapists in Downtown Avalon Park. For contact information and listing of the providers, visit the directory here and select the medical category. The benefits of physical exercise far exceed just the physical benefits. According to TheHelpGuide.org it can also boost your mood, improve your sleep, and help you deal with depression, anxiety, stress and more. From joining the local YMCA, to shooting hoops at the amenity center or taking a swim in the pool, there is a wide range of ways to get physically active in Avalon Park. With such a variety of organizations and opportunities, Avalon Park is a community where all can feel like they belong. Whether you are living, learning, working or playing, or maybe even all four, in Avalon Park, you belong here! So, Avalon Park, let’s come “Together for Mental Health” this month and every month to ensure everyone feels like they belong!
