Jana Marie Foundation takes monthly series online, with focus on wellness amid pandemic
The Jana Marie Foundation will address mental health concerns during self-isolation and social distancing during Thursday’s Mokita Dialogues session, which will be held online via Zoom at 11 a.m. and is open to the public.
The nonprofit holds the Mokita Dialogues series monthly.
“The word ‘mokita’ means a known truth left unspoken — think of the notion of the elephant in the room,” Marisa Vicere, founder and president of the Jana Marie Foundation, said. “This dialogue provides a chance for the community to come together and address topics of vital social concern in a safe and welcoming environment.”
Given the COVID-19 pandemic and May being Mental Health Awareness Month, Thursday’s Mokita Dialogues topic will be mental health concerns and the unique mental health needs that arise during such a historic moment in time.
“Participants of this Mokita Dialogues session can expect a chance to discuss mental health and wellness and what that might look like during this time of distancing. We will begin by laying the foundation with defining mental health and dispelling some myths,” Vicere said.
A discussion will then be led, she said, providing participants a platform to listen, share, connect and learn from one another.
“We encourage (community members) to participate, because it is important to still find ways to connect. While we are experiencing recommendations to physically distance from one another, we want to remind everyone about the importance of social connections during this time,” she said. “The Mokita Dialogues provides a space to meet new people and engage in vibrant conversations.”
The Mokita Dialogues sessions are open to everyone, at https://tinyurl.com/JMFMokita, during the session time on Thursday. However, even if community members are unable to attend the Thursday session, there are other mental health resources available throughout Centre County.
Vicere recommends, for those concerned about their mental health during the pandemic, the Centre County Crisis Line (1-800-643-5432) as well as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK). The Jana Marie Foundation also offers wellness breaks on weekdays on the foundation’s Facebook page, facebook.com/janamariefoundation, via Facebook Live, with mindful yoga Mondays at 9:30 a.m., mindful drumming Tuesdays at 3 p.m., painting Thursdays at 2 p.m. and story time Fridays at noon. The foundation website similarly offers plenteous information on mental health in general and the foundation’s programs.
“Mental and emotional health are equally as important as physical well being, yet silence often surrounds the topic,” Vicere said. “Right now we are experiencing times of uncertainty, which is leading to increased feelings of stress and anxiety. We must continue to break the silence that surrounds mental health to ensure that everyone knows that they are not alone. It is OK to reach out for help and it is OK to reach out to help someone who may be experiencing distress.”
It’s important that people pay attention to their own needs, Vicere said.
“Engage in things that bring you peace and happiness,” she said. “And don’t be afraid to reach out if you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious. There is help available.”
This story was originally published April 22, 2020 at 6:00 AM.