The Hall County Chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Health will host a free two-day conference for those wishing to learn more about mental health topics and how to support those facing mental health issues and crises.
The Pathways to Hope Conference will focus on educating attendees through personal testimonials, speakers, interactive workshops and breakout sessions. The organization said in a press release the conference is designed to foster unity among diverse faith communities, mental health providers, and community members by working together to support those affected by mental health conditions. This year's conference will also place an emphasis on the role played by diverse faith and spiritual communities in supporting individuals facing mental health conditions.
The event aims to serve as a bridge to resources that promote mental health care and challenge the stigma associated with mental health conditions.
“We are excited to host the Pathways to Hope Conference, providing a unique platform for our community to come together and engage in meaningful conversations about mental health,” Lauren Joiner Paul, steering committee chair for NAMI Hall said. “This conference offers a valuable opportunity to learn, connect, and build a stronger support network. We hope attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of mental health challenges and the tools needed to create a more compassionate and inclusive community.”
The two-day conference will provide a safe space for attendees to learn, network, and share their experiences with others who have struggled with their mental health. The event was made possible in a collaborative effort between NAMI Hall, Northeast Georgia Health Systems, United Way’s One Hall Health Committee, and the Ryan Joiner Foundation.
Attendees can look forward to a mix of sessions with national NAMI leaders in the mornings and locally developed workshops in the afternoons. Conference workshops focus on topics such as Mental Health, Therapy and Counseling, Faith and Community, and Youth.
The Pathways to Hope Conference will also feature an art display titled “Seeing the Invisible: Perspectives on Faith & Mental Health Art Competition and Exhibition.” which will have a series of works that represent potential unseen struggles individuals face regarding their mental state within the context of their faith.
The event will be held August 25 from 5 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. and August 26 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 a.m. at the Hub at Gainesville High School. The public is welcome to attend, but everyone is required to register at nami--hall-county.rsvpify.com ahead of time.
