World Mental Health Day lands on Oct. 10, and Sarasota is marking it with a free community gathering at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Collective Voices: From Silence to Strength runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and follows this year’s theme, “Real Voices, Lived Experiences.” The day brings together veterans, mental health and health care professionals, caregivers, survivors and community organizations for guest speakers, panel discussions, veteran stories, resource booths, wellness activities, music and dance.
The focus is broad on purpose: veterans and PTSD, moral injury, addiction, trauma, grief and loss, caregiver support, cancer survivorship and resilience. Organizers say the goal is reaching people who are struggling quietly and connecting them with help right here on the Suncoast. And it’s not only for veterans or people facing mental illness, addiction, suicide or grief. The entire community is invited.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, expanding a kayaking program that serves veterans and people affected by PTSD. That means time on the water, on the bay we all share, becomes part of the healing. Mark the date: Saturday, Oct. 10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Selby Gardens. Who in your life could use a morning like this?
