The Select Board has declared May as Mental Health Month in Lexington. The recognition underscores the importance of mental health, early screening, public education, and advocacy for appropriate and accessible services for our community.
Free and confidential mental health resources are available locally through our Human Services Department for residents of all ages. Visit LexingtonMA.gov/MentalHealth for a complete list of resources.
The Human Services Department, in collaboration with other Town departments and community partners, has put together a number great programs over the next month:
Mental Health Benefits of Being in Nature
Monday, May 2, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. - virtual event
This program is in partnership between Cary Library and Ashland Public Library.
Metro nature - including trees, parks, gardens, and natural areas - enhance quality of life in cities and towns. The experience of nature improves human health and well-being in many ways. Nearly 40 years of scientific studies tell us how. Join Dr. Kathleen Wolf, a research social scientist out of the University of Washington, as we discuss the mental health benefits we might experience if we spend more time in our green spaces.
Intergenerational Card-Making Workshop
Wed., May 4, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. - In-person at the Munroe Center for the Arts
Community co-sponsored program in collaboration with Munroe Center for the Arts
Art has been known to help people improve their mental health. Join with friends of all ages to create some springtime cards in a fun, creative atmosphere. Participants will be provided with a range of different papers, stamps, paper punches, and templates for creating special occasion cards such as birthdays, Mother’s Day, and more. The event is free, but registration is required. This program will take place at the Munroe Center for the Arts, 1403 Massachusetts Avenue. Find out more.
Is It Just Sadness or Worry? Or Is It More? Symptoms, Cultural Considerations, and When To Seek Help
Thursday, May 5, 2022, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. - virtual event
Do you frequently feel sad and tired? Trouble sleeping or appetite changes? Is your mind racing with constant worries? Join our panel of experts for a discussion on common mental health problems.
Dr. Xuejing Li, Psychiatrist & Dr. Pratyusha Tummala-Narra, Clinical Psychologist
Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) - Suicide prevention training
Monday, May 9, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. | Wednesday, May 11, 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | Friday, May 13, 8:00 - 9:00 a.m.- virtual events
To register email Anthony Serio, LCSW at aserio@lexingtonma.gov
In Our Own Voice: a mental health awareness presentation and conversation
Monday, May 16, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. - virtual event
During this presentation, speakers with lived experience of a mental health condition will share their experiences and how they have found pathways to hope and healing. Audience members will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn more about mental health conditions, and challenge misconceptions.
This program is made possible by the generous donors to the Cary Library Foundation. In partnership with the Town of Lexington Human Services Department.
Nutrition Talk: Mental Health - Seniors 60+ come learn how proper nutrition can play a vital role in the treatment of mental health disorders.
Friday, May 20, 11:00 a.m. - noon - In person event at the Lexington Community Center
Barbara Collins, Registered Dietician Nutritionist
Register here (select Human Services Programs on the drop down menu)
Improve Your Sleep, Improve Your Stress - Dr. Jessica Lipman
Thursdays, May 5, 12, 19, 26, 2:00 – 3:00 p.m.
In person event at the Lexington Community Center
Join Dr. Jessica Lipman, local psychologist, to explore coping skills for improving sleep, stress, and challenging times. This group will meet weekly for four consecutive weeks and will work collaboratively to develop new strategies that are effective towards meeting your goals. Enrollment is for all four sessions. Attendance at all is strongly encouraged. Register here (select Human Services Programs on the drop down menu) or call 781-698-4840 starting April 20, 2022. Open to Lexington residents only.
Gut Health = Mental Health
Thursday, May 19, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. - virtual event
There is constant communication that occurs between our gut and brain and that communication is affected by stressors in our lives. Understanding this crucial relationship can empower us to make positive changes in our mental health and has implications. Join Dr. Galanopoulos as she explains the connection between gut health and mental health. Register here (select Human Services Programs on the drop down menu) or call 781-698-4840 starting April 20, 2022.
Food = Medicine - follow up to Gut Health = Mental Health
Thursday, June 16, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. – virtual event
If you want to learn how to cook simple, quick, and nutrient-dense dishes based on the Mediterranean Diet for overall health and positive mood, join Dr. Anastasia Galanopoulos, Ph.D., as a follow up to Gut Health = Mental Health. Register here (select Human Services Programs on the drop down menu) or call 781-698-4840 starting April 20, 2022.
