Join the Mission Promotions Team and Health Ministries Team for an in-person gathering exploring mental health issues, resources, and advocacy.

Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by mental illness each year. Consider these recent statistics published by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):

• 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
• 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
• 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
• 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
• Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-14

Mental illness, acute or chronic, mild or serious, can make it challenging to live everyday life for the person experiencing the illness, and ripples out to impact the lives of many other people who care for the struggling soul. No one needs to suffer.  No one needs to be alone.  Mental health treatment—therapy, medication, self-care—has made recovery a reality for many people experiencing mental illness. 

There are many organizations that offer help and hope.  Unfortunately, far too few people know what help is available.  And sadly, amid all the other issues confronting people in today’s complex world, our churches have been slow to offer acceptance and support to people with mental illness or become involved in education and advocacy about this important public health crisis. But perhaps not anymore!

The Mission Promotion Team of the Minnesota Annual Conference UMC has chosen a Mental Health Focus for its 2023 Mission Summit to be held in the Twin Cities District on April 1, 2023. In collaboration with the Health Ministries Action Team, an exciting and informative program will be offered to all who wish to participate at no cost. Registration is required. Access a flyer with more details.

Schedule

Check-In, Refreshments & Opening: 8:30– 9:15 a.m.

Morning Session

NAMI: Presenter – Kay King; 9:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

• Get To Know NAMI education, support and advocacy programs.
• Creating Caring Faith Communities In Minnesota: Five Things You Can Do: Learn about mental illnesses, the impact of negative attitudes and five things each of us can do to make Minnesota a better place for people who experience a mental illness. 

Lunch (provided free of charge): 12:15-12:55 p.m.

Afternoon Session 

Minnesota Judicial System & Mental Health: 1–2 p.m.

• Honorable John R. McBride, District Court Judge & UMC Pastor (Retired)
• Honorable Nicole J. Starr, District Court Judge, Ramsey County
• Speaker - Center for Excellence in Supported Decision Making - TBD

Panel Discussion with Presenters:  2:-2:45 p.m. 

Closing: 2:45–3 p.m.

Educational materials will be available for individuals and churches from NAMI, The Minnesota United Methodist Parish Nurses Association, and other organizations.