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Brain health is part of living well; talk about it

By
Lori Sorenson

There may come a day when an anxiety episode is treated no differently than an asthma attack; both being conditions that require attention.
However, brain health carries a stigma, and a person with anxiety or depression is less likely to seek treatment.
That’s what a group of local advocates are working to change.
#Luv1LuvAll is sponsoring a series of monthly Brain Health classes from 7 to 8 p.m. the first Monday of the month starting Oct 7 and continuing through May (no December class) at Luverne Community Education.
The goal is to end stigma and encourage conversations about mental health — like physical health — toward improved quality of life, according to Angela Nolz, integrated health therapist at Sanford Luverne.
“I really do think it is about increased dialogue about the fact that it’s OK to not be OK,” Nolz said. “That way we can move toward treatment options to be well.”
The monthly classes, free and open to anyone, will each address different components of brain health, with different community professionals spearheading each one.
The first session at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7, will feature a personal account of living with depression.
Others will feature medical doctors who will present information on the basics of brain health. Nolz will speak about coping skills and resiliency; and counselors will address topics like chemical awareness, healthy relationships and mindfulness.
 
Start conversations early
Meanwhile, a parallel effort is planned for students in Luverne’s sixth grade.
“The idea is that if we start educating them young enough, they can start having conversations as they get older,” Nolz said.
Working through the school guidance counselor, Nolz sent a letter to sixth-grade parents about the plan.
“The reasons for these educational sessions are vast and include our continued increased statistics on children struggling with mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression,” she wrote.
“It is the hope that these sessions start the conversation and end the stigma of opening up about any struggles our youth may be having. … It is my personal hope that the message is clear that help is out there and change is possible. We also hope that these topics can assist in keeping kids well.”
The students will learn about brain health during their flex time at school.
Community members can attend monthly sessions at the Community Education office.
There is no charge to attend, but registrations are requested in order to plan adequate space and accommodations. Call 507-283-4724.
Nolz said she’s hoping for 120 people, but any number of interested residents would be welome.
“Even if it’s 20, and if those 20 people hear the information and share it with three more people, it will be worthwhile,” she said.
“What I get excited about is we have community members and local professionals who see this as worth their time to share their expertise.”
Certificates of Attendance will be available. Sessions are free but registration is appreciated to plan for accommodations. Call 507-283-4724.

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