Mental health board to sponsor education event

Newton — The Sussex County Mental Health Advisory Board, in cooperation with the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders and the Department of Health and Human Services, is sponsoring a public education community event on June 14, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. This event will be held on the campus of the Sussex County Community College in the theater. Refreshments and snacks will be provided. Individuals suffering from mental illness and substance abuse have complex issues often misunderstood by their family, friends, employers and co-workers. The purpose of this event is to educate the community about people suffering from this illness and the long-term consequences when not treated, that affect not only the individual, but their family, friends, employers and the community as a whole. The format for this event is a panel discussion consisting of local community members including employers, law enforcement, county government and relatives coping with mental health issues in their family. Michael Giantini, Ph.D. a consultant and training specialist with the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey will also participate in this discussion. Audience participation and comment are included in the discussion. For additional information, contact Cindy Armstrong, Sussex County Mental Health Administrator, Sussex County Division of Community and Youth Services, at 973-948-6000, Ext. 225.