MHA Mental Health Conference

MHA Conference

We had a memorable time this week at the Mental Health Association of Orange County Conference. Over 900 people were in attendance including mental health care professionals, agencies, public health providers, elected officials, family members/care givers and many more. It was a fantastic opportunity to learn more about all of the mental health programs and community support that is available in Orange County.

We  also had the opportunity to educate others about our own monitored alcohol and drug program OPTIONS Outpatient .  Many other programs and professionals were interested in our outpatient program as an additional and much needed resource for addiction.  Alcohol and Drug  Addiction is a very  common symptom that occurs alongside most mental health disorders. In these cases, it is critical to include an addiction program along with treatment for a mental health disorder so that the treatment may be effective.

After lunch and listening to the keynote speaker Diana De La Garza, who has an amazing story, we attended a few of the 36 workshops that were available to all attendees. One of these was  an interactive workshop on Primitive Reflexes, Breath and Beat and its positive effects on regulating our emotions.  We walked in the door to see everyone  dancing and laughing!  It was fun and  informative and everyone left with a smile on their face.

We ended the afternoon browsing through the remarkable artwork on exhibit from artists who have mental illnesses and were thoroughly impressed.   What an educational and informative experience! Leaving the conference, we were proud to be included as member of the community of health care professionals that support mental health wellness here in Orange county.