October is Emotional Wellness Month.  On Saturday, October 16, 2021 families gathered at the Ocean View Beach Park where we hosted our first Chat & Chew. The purpose of the Chat & Chew was to be open and real about taking care of our mental health.  

Mental Health Professional, Antuane McCoy, alongside some of his colleagues and some staff from Kempsville Behavioral Health provided great information and resources on what mental health is, where to seek out help, and stressing the importance of being connected to a support system. They gave examples of triggers and when to know you need to seek help.

While this event was sponsored by our Youth Ministry, it was really for everyone.  The panel touched on youth/children, young adults, and seniors.  Attendees not only asked insightful questions, but they shared personal stories.   Not only were church members in attendance, several park visitor who passed by joined in to make the event one to remember.

 The Licensed/certified clinicians and mental health professionals that shared on that Saturday were truly a blessing to those who attended in person or watched via Facebook live.  They provided a lot of information, resources, and knowledge on mental health awareness.  Folders were provided to everyone in attendance which included information on how to get connected to your local CSB, warning signs, triggers, tips and suggestions for ways you can work on your own mental health.  There was also information in the folders that included local groups through NAMI that meet several times per week along with the information on how to sign up. 

You and your family are welcome to attend future Chat & Chew events.  Come out with your children and bring your chairs and blankets.  To sign up or for ore details, please contact Shareen Abdullah.