PITTSFIELD, Mass. — NAMI Berkshire County held its first ever Youth Mental Health Wellness Fair on July 12 at the Common, in conjunction with Roots Risings' Pittsfield Farmers Market. 

 

The local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness attracted close to 250 people to the "big tent" to partake in painting activities including T-shirts under the guidance of local artist Mike Carty, birdhouses, wellness rocks and flowerpots, and planted flowers in pots and made friendship bracelets.

 

Several non-profit organizations also participated in the event, sharing information on the resources and programs they provide, including Berkshire Health Systems, Berkshire Coalition for Suicide Prevention, Berkshire Music School, which also provided a variety of instruments for the kids to experience from their "musical petting zoo."

 

Elizabeth Heller, author of "Breathe, Move, Journal," led a group session on fun mindfulness activities for kids that encourage emotional and physical well-being. Joanna Barzottini provided chair massages and Balloon Ben Wibby created balloon animals for the kids.

 

"The event was definitely a success," said Ruth Healy, president of the NAMI Berkshire County board of directors. "We weren't sure what to expect as far as turnout goes, but we had a steady stream of adults and children from the beginning to the end. We absolutely plan to hold this event again and hope to partner with even more organizations to make the event bigger and better."

 

She said NAMI's mission is to provide support, education and advocacy to all those in our community whose lives are affected by mental health issues. 

 

"Our youth are our future and we need to help them feel that their lives matter and that we listen to their fears and concerns and help them learn coping strategies," she said. "If we helped to enrich the lives of these young people at this event, then we succeeded in our goal."

 

Healy said the organization was grateful to everyone who participated and especially Berkshire Health Systems and Guardian Life Insurance Company for their financial backing: "We couldn't have held this event without their support."

 

Learn more about NAMI Berkshire County at www.namibc.org.