One in five adolescents reported having a major depressive episode in 2021.
For adults, one in four reported having a mental health related health issue in that same year, said Kevin Whelley, program director for the local YMCAs new Wellbeing Initiative.
"Those are our neighbors, our brothers, our sisters, our mothers, our friends, our students," he said. "That is why a program like this is so vital."
Representatives from the five YMCAs joined U.S. Rep. Matt Cartwright on Wednesday at the Greater Scranton YMCA in Dunmore to unveil the initiative. The congressman secured $1.85 million in federal funding for the programming which will address mental health issues and substance use disorder.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Northeast Region PA (NAMI) will provide educational programming and support groups weekly at each of the Ys, which include the Greater Scranton, Wyoming Valley, Carbondale, Pittston and Wayne County YMCAS.
As part of the Wellbeing Initiative, community agencies and stakeholders will offer seminars, workshops and different demonstrations on nutrition, said Whelley. The Ys will also offer holistic approaches to mental health like art and music therapy, meditation and mindfulness. The programs are free and for anyone; a YMCA membership is not required.
Evidence-based curriculum and social emotional lessons will also be a part of their childcare programs, Whelley said.
"I'm hopeful that this initiative will help us make some of those early interventions as well as provide supports and hope and inspiration to people who have been struggling a long time," said Marie Onukiavage, executive director of the local NAMI chapter.
Cartwright's sons learned to swim at the Greater Scranton YMCA. The Ys are a valuable community resource, he said.
“We all want to see our communities thrive. And one way we can do it is by ensuring accessible and affordable mental and behavioral health support services for people of all ages and all socio-economic issues," he said.
