Mental health and wellness summit in East Lansing

EAST LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – Mental health and wellness matters. That was the message on Wednesday at East Lansing High School where a mental health and wellness summit was held.

East Lansing Public School’s goal for the event was to highlight what’s available in the community and make sure everyone pays attention to their emotional well-being. It was the first year for the summit and the district’s mental health coordinator said it’s been in the works for a while. The event was open to people of all ages, with dozens of resources available. One attendee, Amy Dalton, said she came out to learn.

“It’s important for everyone to know, no matter where they are in their journey that there’s support out there, and it’s okay. And to reach out,” Dalton said.

The resources available included chances to connect with therapists, grief counseling, and family centers.

The District’s Mental Health Coordinator, Heather Findley, wanted to make sure all aspects of health were covered on Wednesday.

“We know that physical wellness is part of that as well. Kind of being connected to yourself. So we were really mindful of offering some physical activities, offering some mindfulness, meditation, nutrition,” Findley said.

And for those looking for a furry friend, therapy dogs were available. East Lansing’s Superintendent, Dori Leyko, said each school has at least 1 therapy dog.

“Our kids and staff utilize them on a daily basis for a variety of reasons. And it’s just been a great community builder for each of our buildings,” Leyko said.

Leyko also added that the District’s priority on mental health came after the pandemic.

“When we brought kids back, and staff back, we recognized that we really had a new emphasis on supporting the well-being and mental health of our staff and students,” Leyko said.

One of the biggest reasons for the event, Findley said is to show that East Lansing cares, The district cares, and the community cares.

“We want to be welcoming and we want to represent a safe and welcoming community, and this is one way we can offer that,” Findley said.

The event ran from 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. and organizers hope to make this an annual event.

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