2021 Virtual Marathon for Mental Health
It has been so amazing to see and feel the outpouring of support for mental health and the Hub during May's Mental Health Awareness Month. One of my favorite personal stories involved watching my 8-year-old son's dedication to his one mile a day. Late one evening post-Little League baseball game, he was getting ready to head up to bed when he stopped and remembered that he hadn't done his 'Hub mile" for the day. That little boy turned right back around, laced up, and headed outside saying "he made a promise".
I've heard stories like this all during May--with Hub supporters sharing that this was JUST the motivation they needed to get outside and get active. Over 130 members of our community participated in the Hub Virtual Marathon for Mental Health. Each individual had the option to run, walk, bike, or hike 26.2 miles.
Together, residents and friends ages 8-78 completed 3,000 miles and raised over $13,000 for mental health and addiction services for our community. Thank you, Philipstown!
Mental Health Challenges in the LGBTQ+ Community
June is PRIDE month. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and/or queer (LGBTQ) individuals often face significant barriers when accessing mental health services. Since opening in 2019, Philipstown Hub has been an encouraging environment for individuals and families within the LGBTQ+ community. We have sat with parents who were trying to understand their child's identity, assisted adults looking for therapists who specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients, and provided confidential care and support for those struggling with self-acceptance.
LGBTQ-identified individuals experience increased vulnerability to mental health issues due to a variety of factors, including bullying, violence, discrimination, homophobia, and rejection by friends and family. Please join us during the month of June to become more aware of these issues and their impact on our neighbors' mental health.
As Hub Board and Staff head into our Annual Meeting of the year this Sunday, it is a good time to reflect on all the support that we've received from this community over the course of the year. That support has come right back to the community by allowing us to increase Hub services and programs focused on the addiction and mental health needs of Philipstown residents.
The Hub is here for you no matter where you are in your mental health and addiction journey, and we'd like to remind you it's OKAY to reach out for help. We encourage you to give us a call at 845-809-5050 or to schedule an appointment with us at www.philipstownhub.org.
Health and Hope,
Danielle Pack McCarthy
June 2021