YORK, Maine — To mark National Mental Health Awareness Month this May, the York Public Library, in collaboration with the York Rotary Club and other community partners, is introducing a month-long wellness initiative, “Embracing Wellness.”
The series includes diverse programs addressing key topics such as anxiety management, mindfulness, sleep, and mental health first aid for adults and youth. Additionally, there will be a Wellness Fair, family-focused events, and discussions centered around the Community Read book, “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman.
The Embracing Wellness series began as a community read proposed by Kerry Cronin, assistant director of the York Public Library and a member of the Rotary Club of York. The club embraced the idea and purchased 50 copies of the book to distribute around town, also funding initiatives like Teen Wellness Kits and a meditative Sound Bath program.
The Community Read quickly became a month full of programming for all ages throughout the month of May.
“I mentioned the community read and mental health focus to various community groups, and everyone wanted to be involved,” said Cronin. “I think it speaks to the vital importance of mental health issues, and the inclusive culture of our town and the organizations who support us all.”
Participating organizations include York Hospital’s Choose to Be Healthy and Youth Resiliency Coalitions, Cornerstone VNA, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), York Parks and Recreation, the York School Department, and many others.
“York Rotary is thrilled to be partnering with so many community partners to address these critical issues facing all of us,” said York Rotary President Jud Knox.
According to NAMI, 37.5% of adults in Maine reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in 2021, and 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6–17 experience a mental health disorder each year nationally.
“It affects us all,” said Michelle Sampson, executive director for York Public Library. “This has become a wonderful opportunity to showcase the tremendous resources and organizations available to York residents.”
Many programs are made possible with grant support. Cornerstone VNA will fund “Mental Health First Aid for Adults” a two-day, 8-hour training on May 1-2, and a workshop, “Living Well with Anxiety.” Both events are funded through grant initiatives.
A training for Youth Mental Health First Aid is sponsored by York Hospital’s Choose to Be Healthy and Youth Resiliency Coalitions. York Hospital will also lead a session on wellness from prevention through recovery.
In addition to the Teen Wellness kits (available in the Teen Space at York Public Library), other programs are geared toward youth and children. White Pine Programs will lead a workshop for kids and caregivers on nature-based strategies for emotional regulation.
There will be three chances to join a discussion about “A Man Called Ove.” Fredrik Backman’s beloved first novel about the angry “old man next door” is a thoughtful exploration of the profound impact one life has on countless others.
The book was selected because it touches on many themes such as loneliness, grief, ageism, intergenerational relationships, life transitions, and belonging – and will provide a springboard for meaningful conversation on a variety of topics.
The York Rotary Club will facilitate a discussion on May 7 at the St. Aspinquid Masonic Lodge (with dessert); York Public Library will host a discussion on May 14; and the Center for Active Living will host one on May 19 at CAL headquarters.
The library will also host a screening of “A Man Called Otto,” the film adaptation of the book starring Tom Hanks on May 17.
A full schedule of “Embracing Wellness” events is posted on the library’s website at yorkpubliclibrary.org/wellness. Registration is encouraged. For more information about the “Embracing Wellness” series, call 207-363-2818.
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