Mental health is essential for a person's overall health. Prevention works, treatment is effective, and people can recover from mental disorders and live full and productive lives.

Since 1949 the month of May has been designated National Mental Health Month to raise awareness of trauma and the impact it can have on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of children, families, and communities. It is also a time to celebrate recovery from mental illness. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in five Americans will be affected by a mental health condition in their lifetime, yet mental health receives much less attention than physical health.

The Simi Valley Public Library will honor Mental Health Month with several programs during May and is pleased to introduce the upcoming discussion group scheduled for May 4, 2017.

Concussion Recognition & Management in Young Athletes

According to a recent study on student’s academic dysfunction following concussion, published in The American Journal of Public Health, concussed individuals may experience headaches, dizziness, impaired concentration, memory loss, sleep disturbance, and altered mood (particularly depression). These symptoms can greatly contribute to poor academic performance.

A physical therapist for the California Titans (a high level youth ice hockey team) and certified in IMPACT concussion testing will present an informative, family-friendly program, focusing on concussion awareness in young athletes: understanding what it is, and how it is recognized and managed among children and adolescents who engage in sport and other physical activity.

This program is co-sponsored by the California Physical Therapy Association.

For more information, contact Michael Whitehead, Teen Services Librarian, at Michael.whitehead@simivalleylibrary.org.

For more information on all Library programs and resources, including e-resources, visit the Library's website or call 805-526-1735.