Macon Hosts First-Ever Mental Health Symposium

More than 200 people gathered at the South Bibb Recreation Center on Friday, May 23, and Saturday, May 24, for the first-ever Macon Mental Health Matters (MMHM) symposium, a two-day event aimed at promoting mental wellness and creating a trauma-informed community.

Organized by MMHM, the symposium focused on the long-term impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and offered educational panels and breakout sessions for attendees ranging from community members to law enforcement and educators.

Breakout sessions included Mandated Reporter Certification Training, Public Spaces and Mental Health, Law Enforcement & Community Mental Health, Protecting Student Mental Health, and Understanding ACEs. Opening panels featured discussions titled The Current State of Mental Health in Our Community and Holding Space for Our Neighbors, and included speakers such as Macon-Bibb Mayor Pro Tempore Seth Clark.

“The Macon Mental Health Matters symposium was an incredible example of the honesty and collaboration that exists among Macon’s mental health providers, law enforcement, and local government,” said Clark.

Andrea Cooke, Director of MMHM, said the event was a collaborative success.

“The panels were powerful, with such a good mix of voices, and you could feel people really listening and connecting with one another,” said Cooke. “Seeing everyone come together like that reminded me why I’m so passionate about this work.”

The event was free and featured 56 speakers and volunteers. Cooke said the symposium will return in the future as part of ongoing efforts to position Macon as a leader in mental health awareness and support in Georgia.

MMHM offers free classes and events throughout the year. Click here to see upcoming events.