The demand for mental and behavioral health services is rising in Colorado’s mountain towns and across the nation. According to the CDC, more than one in five adults in the United States experience mental illness each year. The situation is even more alarming among youth aged 13 to 18, with one in five currently or at some point in their lives suffering from a seriously debilitating mental illness.
In response to this growing crisis, the Vail Symposium, Benj Gershman (bassist of the band O.A.R. and host of the “What Could Be Bad” podcast), and the Vail Valley Foundation have partnered to present Mountains & Minds, a mental health summit aimed at strengthening community ties by elevating and destigmatizing discussions around mental and behavioral health. The summit is set to take place from September 13-14 at the Vilar Performing Arts Center in Beaver Creek.
“The catalyst for creating Mountains & Minds is the ongoing local, national, and global mental health crisis, combined with my personal mission to destigmatize conversations in this space and leadership from within Eagle County,” said Gershman. “The important work being done in this incredible community is an example that deserves recognition. However, we are not at the top of the mountain just yet. This event will focus on the positive and address what still needs to be done to serve the needs of the valley, Colorado, and our country. Together, we will make the summit.”
The summit seeks to bring together community members, mental health professionals, and advocates to address the pressing need for improved mental health services and support systems, not only in the Vail Valley but across Colorado and beyond.
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