• Eureka is hosting a town hall to debunk myths about mental illness on May 4th at the Wharfinger Building.
• The event features panel discussions with local professionals, individuals with lived experience, and a keynote speaker, Joseph Reid.
• The town hall is a part of Mental Health Awareness Month and aims to provide support and resources for those experiencing mental health crises.

The City of Eureka, in partnership with the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), is hosting a community town hall on Sunday, May 4th, at the Wharfinger Building. The event aims to address and debunk common myths and misconceptions surrounding mental illness. Local professionals and individuals with lived experience will participate in panel discussions, and Joseph Reid, the founder and executive director of Broken People, will be the keynote speaker. The event seeks to raise awareness, provide support, and connect community members with available resources.

• What: A community town hall event to address and debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding mental illness.
• Who: The City of Eureka, Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), local mental health professionals, individuals with lived experience, Joseph Reid (founder and executive director of Broken People), Crisis Alternative Response Eureka (CARE) team, Eureka Police Department (EPD).
• When: Sunday, May 4th, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Where: Wharfinger Building, 1 Marina Way in Eureka.

The town hall represents a proactive effort by the City of Eureka and its partners to address stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental illness. By bringing together professionals, individuals with lived experience, and community members, the event aims to foster understanding, promote help-seeking behavior, and provide access to resources. The involvement of the CARE team and the mention of their co-response initiative highlight the city's commitment to integrating mental health support into emergency response systems. Addressing the myth that people with mental illness are more violent is particularly important for reducing fear and discrimination. The mention of the 988 lifeline and the EPD's non-emergency number provides immediate resources for those in need.

"[Reid] is really trying to talk about the reality of mental illness and that people can get better."

"One myth we hear a lot in our line of work at CARE is that people with mental illness are more violent than other people, and that’s just not true."

"And, across the board, that just isn’t true."

The upcoming town hall in Eureka represents a significant step towards promoting mental health awareness and combating stigma within the community. By providing a platform for open discussion, expert insights, and personal narratives, the event aims to empower individuals, families, and the community as a whole. The focus on debunking myths and providing resources underscores a commitment to creating a more supportive and informed environment for those affected by mental illness. The event's success will depend on community participation and the continued collaboration of local organizations and professionals.