On Wednesday, May 18th the Pit River Health Services (PRHS) hosted a community workshop on mental health at the Pit River Community Center. The seminar took place from 12 noon to 1:30 p,m. and featured talks by staff members of the Pit River Behavioral Health program.
Angel Diaz speaking at the mental health workshop at Pit River Communnity Center
The program was opened by Rebecca Valenzuela who welcomed guests and gave information about how to contact the behavioral health center and make appointments.
Family Social Worker Angela Diaz described various programs and said she was available to help people go through the process of applying and filling out forms.
Substance Abuse Counselor Onita Viramontes advised listeners on potential hazards of marijuana use by young people. She said that the brain is not fully developed until a person is about 25 years old and THC can have an unhealthy impact on development. Marijuana use may augment anxiety and panic attacks in some people. It may also be a contributing factor to the development of other at-risk behaviors.
Substance Abuse Counselor Onita Viramontes
Patrick Curran, Marriage and Family Therapist, discussed boundaries and healthy relationships.
Frank Kearns, the Behavioral Health Director at PRHS gave a short but detailed presentation on the effects of trauma. Much of Mr. Kearns talk was based on a Kaiser Study on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE). He also mentioned the work of The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Behavioral Health Director Frank Kearns
After showing a number of graphics statistically detailing the adverse effects of trauma and ACE, Mr. Kearns said that trauma could be collective or cultural as well as individual. To illustrate this point he ended by showing a poignantly poetic video entitled “We Shall Remain” by The StyleHorse Collective
The entire program was very pleasant and informative. A light lunch was served for participants. After the presentations there was a short period of question and answer.
The Behavioral Health Department at PRHS intends to hold more such events in the future. If you would be interested in receiving information concerning such events contact Rebecca Valenzuela rebecca.v@pitriverhealthservice.org
Pit River Country 