National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day

County Mayor Jonah Keltner signed a proclamation on Monday morning, recognizing May 6th as National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day for Lewis County.

The proclamation read that addressing the complex mental health of children, youth, young adults and families is fundamental to the citizens of Lewis County, and the need for comprehensive, coordinated mental health services “places upon our community a critical responsibility.”

The proclamation was created in part by TN Voices, a non-profit who provides advocacy and support for families with children and youth who need guidance with mental health. According to their website, TNV has reached over 50,000 parents/caregivers, family members and professionals during the past fiscal year to offer their support and guidance through programs and training sessions. “TNV works collaboratively with parents, professionals, state and federal officials, policy makers and other key stakeholders to ensure that services provided to children and families in Tennessee are family driven, community based, and culturally and linguistically competent,” said their website, tnvoices.org.

Mayor Keltner signed the proclamation on Monday, May 3rd, which urged all citizens, agencies and organizations “interested in meeting every child’s mental health needs to unite on that day in the observance of such exercises as will acquaint the people of Lewis County with the fundamental necessity of a year-round program for children, youth and young adults with mental health needs and their families.”