Mental health topic at Carson City Chamber luncheon

One in five people will experience a mental illness within this year. That’s the staggering figure from the National Alliance on Mental Health, one that can’t be taken lightly.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg.

As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Carson City Chamber is hosting a luncheon meeting at the Gold Dust West on May 23 at 11:30 a.m. to address how our city is addressing the mental health crisis and how it can affect our every day lives.

Robin Reedy, executive director of the local NAMI office, will serve as the moderator. Expert panelists include those who work daily with mental health clients in their professional field.

Sheriff Kenny Furlong will address how mental illness can be one of the reasons for incarceration. Nationally, 21 percent of the prisoners are booked due to mental illness.

Chief of Juvenile Services Ali Banister will shed light on those under 18 who become a part of the juvenile justice system. Nationally, 70 percent of youth who enter the system have a mental health issue with 20 percent of those considered serious. Kids as young as 10 can become a part of the system.

Judge Kristin Luis presides over the city’s Mental Health Court. She sees an average of 30 participants weekly to assist them through comprehensive treatment supervised by a multi-disciplinary team.

Jacob Hicks is a nurse at Mallory Behavioral Health Crisis Center, once the site of Carson Tahoe Hospital in downtown Carson City. The Center provides 24-hour emergency assistance for those in a mental health or substance abuse crisis and is a department of Carson Tahoe Regional Health Care.

The luncheon will be thought-provoking and shed light on the many services offered to provide assistance to caregivers and patients. Cost is $20 and includes lunch. RSVP prior to May 20 at 882-1565. Cost is $25 after May 20. The public is invited.