The Continuing Education Department and Division of Health Sciences at Gadsden State Community College are partnering with Gadsden Regional Medical Center and Alabama Area Health Education Centers to sponsor a Mental Health Conference from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 18 at Helderman Hall on the Wallace Drive Campus.

“Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being,” said Dana Cordell, continuing education and corporate training manager at Gadsden State. “The Mental Health Conference is an invaluable opportunity to bring together professionals, educators, first responders to discuss important strategies, share knowledge and create awareness around mental health challenges. This event is crucial in fostering a supportive environment where individuals can learn how to better manage their mental health so that they can contribute to the strength of our community.”

The conference agenda, topics and speakers are:

8 a.m. – Registration and Breakfast

8:30 a.m. – Welcome

8:45 a.m. – Role Strain: Elizabeth Wheatley of Gadsden State Community College

10 a.m. – Essential Legal and Long-term Care Planning When There’s a Dementia Diagnosis: Bill Miller of Miller Estate and Elder Law

11 a.m. – Protecting my Mental Health: Caroline Baker of the Center for Nursing Excellence and the Center for Psychiatric Medicine

Noon – Lunch

12:30 p.m. – Sports and Mental Health: Dena Cook and Tanya Ragen from the Etowah County Board of Education

1:30 p.m. – Aging Safely with Dignity and Grace: Stacye Green of Etowah County Department of Human Resources

2:45 p.m. – The Real Deal about Grief: LaTasha Toney, licensed social worker

3:45 p.m. – Certificates and closing remarks

The conference fee is $25 for pre-registration or $35 at the door.  Continental breakfast and lunch are provided.  Nursing attendees will earn 7.2 continuing education units.  Social workers, first responders and educators will earn 6 CEUs.

For more information or to register for the conference, email Cordell at dcordell@gadsdenstate.edu, call 256-549-8462 or visit www.GadsdenState.edu/ContinuingEd.