“Living with Mental Illness: Words to Say, Things to Do”

February is Jewish Disability, Awareness and Inclusion Month. At this presentation — which requires advance registration for both in-person and Zoom attendance (see below) — Dr. Susan Noonan, MD, MPH, will discuss practical ways to respond and communicate in order to provide support for those experiencing mental health challenges. The focus will be on what to do and say as a family member and/or friend in the role as caregiver. Specific challenges such as mood disorders, stigma, refusing treatment, and suicidal thoughts will be addressed. A question and answer period will follow.

Noonan is a physician, mental health and wellness coach, consultant and author. She also works as a group facilitator and is a certified peer specialist. A graduate of Mount Holyoke College, Tufts University School of Medicine and the Harvard University School of Public Health, Noonan has earned certification in both emergency medicine and lifestyle medicine. Her most recent activities include creating a Peer Specialist and Supporter Training Course for healthcare professionals. She is the author of five books on managing mental health and mood disorders, most recently Reconnecting after Isolation: Coping with Anxiety, Depression, Grief, PTSD and More.

This program is hosted by the Inclusion Committee of Congregation Beth El, made possible by a grant from Fund for the Future. Click here to register to attend or get the Zoom link.