Cicero | wikipedia.org
Cicero | wikipedia.org
Dr. Skurski, a family practice nurse practitioner and psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, spoke at a recent workshop organized by the Cicero Health Department to encourage residents to discuss mental health more openly. “A lot of us have life stressors — within our families, relationships, or even through isolation and loneliness,” she said. “Society and social media constantly bombard us with things that can affect our well-being. It never hurts to come in for a checkup.”
The event informed attendees about services available at the Cicero Health Department, such as chronic disease management, psychiatric care, screenings for depression, anxiety, and ADHD. The department also offers low-cost options for those without insurance. Participants had opportunities to use calming stations, learn about screening tools, and collect informational resources.
Guest speaker Sonia Rich addressed how stigma around mental health can prevent people from seeking help. She shared information on anxiety and depression and provided advice for self-care. “Talking about mental health should be as normal as talking about physical health,” Rich stated.