Brooklyn events mark Mental Health Month

Two events were held in Brooklyn Saturday to mark Mental Health Month, in an effort to spark discussions on mental illness in a friendly environment.
New York City first lady Chirlane McCray visited an East Flatbush church as part of her ongoing effort to change the culture and educate the public on addiction and mental illness. She selected the location because houses of worship tend to be ideal settings to discuss sensitive topics.
"People see it as a lack of discipline, lack of character, and it's been considered a mark of shame --and we want to change that," McCray says.
In Brownsville, several nonprofit groups and city agencies sought to put a spotlight on issues that some consider taboo. One group says it's challenged by the alarming number of children who have considered suicide.
In both communities, residents and advocates say access is vital, and the light atmosphere helps make it easier to discuss feelings and emotions.