New Horizons Hosts Second Annual Mental Health Fair

Press Release: May 2008

New Horizons celebrated “May is Mental Health Month” by hosting the second annual Mental Health Fair at the Vero Beach Community Center. The event was opened to the public and offered information on where to turn for a variety of mental health and social services.

More than a 100 people attended the event and learned valuable information regarding medications, housing, Medicare and Medicaid, Social Security, and accessing public transportation. Numerous activities were also offered, including depression/anxiety screenings, complimentary massages and more.

One of the most interesting displays was the Virtual Hallucination machine sponsored by Janssen. By strapping on headphones and space age goggles individuals were able to comprehend what a person living with schizophrenia is experiencing.

"This is a great tool for helping family members and mental health professionals begin to understand what our clients are feeling," said Angela Guzenski, Recovery Support Services Manager.

Organizations participating in the event included: 2-1-1, Abilities of Florida, Access Florida, Amedisys Home Health Care, Brevard Achievement Center, Easter Seals Florida, Family Private Care, Hanley Hall, Healing Hands, and Hibiscus Children’s Center.  Indian River Health Department, Indian River Mental Health Association, Miller’s Health Mart, Nurse On Call Home Health, Janssen Pharmaceutica, Millers Health Mart, Pfizer , and Senior Resource Association also participated.

“This was a wonderful collaborative experience and the attendees enjoyed visiting all the vendors,” said Guzenski.  “Thanks to a sponsorship from the Hodgson and Murrah Families we were able to hold the event at the new location."