Placer4MentalHealth Wellness Fair provides much-needed relief to residents

To kick off Mental Health Matters Month, as proclaimed by the Placer County Board of Supervisors, the county teamed up with Campaign for Community Wellness (CCW) to host the first Placer4MentalHealth Wellness Fair on May 2 at the Maidu Community Center. Placer4MentalHealth was a campaign started last year to connect Placer County residents with mental health resources and meet a needed demand in the area. According to Systems of Care Manager Sue Compton, the Wellness Fair aims to encourage people to seek out mental health resources despite the "stigma and feelings of isolation" they may feel when it comes to mental health. "We recognize that even as demand for mental health services has increased, it can be challenging to navigate resources," said CCW partner and Deputy District Attorney Kyle Jibson. "The Placer4MentalHealth Wellness Fair aims to support families in connecting with care while also having fun." The Wellness Fair offered a variety of resources from the county's organizations, including the Placer County Mobile Crisis Team, Placer County Probation and the Placer County District Attorney's Office with an appearance from DA Morgan Gire. The Roseville Police Department also provided community resources. According to a press release, more than 8,700 residents in the county benefited from Placer's mental health services, including individual and group interventions, 24/7 crisis services, peer supports, school services and other mental health services. In addition to local law enforcement agencies, organizations including PFlag Placer County, 211 Placer County, The Lotus Behavioral Health Crisis Center and dozens more also provided resources and passed out goodies for guests. The event also provided guests needed peace through activities including live music, live dance from Auburn Hip Hop Congress and meditation activities. Jen Addington of the Auburn Racquet Club led a free Yin Yoga session for guests during the fair. Yin Yoga is a slow, calm style. Peace and quiet, stretching and deep breathing helped to cleanse the stress of guests. Many participants commented how much they needed that. Guests also loosened up in another way: comedy. Laughter can help some relieve stress, and guests had help through World Series of Comedy 2023 finalist Drew Shafer. He spoke of his own mental health experiences amid his set to bring a unique spin on his comedy. Those experiencing a mental health crisis are encouraged to call the Placer County 24-hour crisis line at 916-787-8860 or 1-888-886-5401 for immediate assistance. Resources will be provided either by The Lotus Behavioral Health Crisis Center or The 24/7 Mobile Crisis team.