During the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown, Americans have reported rising levels of anxiety, depression and other psychological trauma and distress. To help families and individuals to respond to these mental health issues and seek help, Catholic Charities of Pittsburgh and its partners are sponsoring a free virtual mental health forum for people concerned about their own mental health and that of others.
“Mental Health Awareness and Support Through Post-Pandemic Stress” will be held via Zoom on Wednesday, May 19, from 8:00 am - 10:00 am. A recording will be available afterwards. Jennifer Antkowiak, diocesan executive director of Communications and Community Relations, will emcee the event.
Presentations and speakers will include:
“Trends in mental health issues facing adults during COVID-19,” Marissa Barr, Southwest Regional Director, therapist, for Catholic Charities of Pittsburgh
“Mental health issues facing children after COVID-19,” Susan Caban, Director of Education for the National Alliance on Mental Illness
“Suicide-related issues facing adults and children,” Jesse Putkoski, Regional Director for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
“Information on grief and mental health support groups,” Jack Shaw, Program Coordinator for Lifeline of Listening Friends