By Emmanuel T. Erediano
Variety News Staff

MAY has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Month with the theme “There’s hope, there’s help,” and the Community Guidance Center says it is doubling its effort in reaching out to the people who need help in dealing with mental stress.
Center director Josephine T, Sablan yesterday announced a series of workshops on stress and anger management, among other events next month that will address mental health issues.
“There’s recovery for anyone,” Sablan said.
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, who signed the proclamation, said in jest that he is now managing stress better after attending two courses in stress management.
He said he has “developed a positive attitude” when dealing with problems, adding that “there’s always good coming out of bad moments.”
“Just inhale and exhale,” he said.
Press Secretary Charles P. Reyes Jr., said he manage his stress through lifting weights.
Saipan Mayor Juan B. Tudela, who also attended the proclamation signing, said drinking a glass of water helps him relieve his mental stress.
The Community Guidance Center will have clinicians to make presentations, conduct stress management workshops and other outreach programs, Sablan said.
The center’s psychologist, Dr. Kendall Gladding, said there is an increasing need for more services to raise awareness on mental health issues.
Fitial, in his proclamation, said: “We must focus on utilizing local resources and the island way of life to transform how the CNMI addresses mental health. Educational and awareness activities must be increased in order to enhance our understanding of mental health and address the stigma and negative attitudes commonly associated with mental illness”
He added, “Consumers and family members must continue to take an active role in making the mental health service system more responsive. Collaborative ties must be strengthened between government agencies, private organizations, consumers, family members and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the effective coordination of services and state resources. Hope lies in these smallest of efforts. It is up to the community to take the initiative and help shape our mental health service system into one that best serves the people of the CNMI.”