W. O. resident Explores Creativity and Mental Health on 3/29/21

VIRTUAL GROUP - JOIN US MONDAYs at 5 p.m. Host Lynette Sheard, Director of the Mental Health Association in New Jersey's New Jersey Mental Health Players, explores mental health and creativity every week, through insightful interactive discussion and an interview with a special guest from the performing arts community. Zoom in or watch on Facebook Live on the Mental Health Association in New Jersey's Facebook Page for an excellent opportunity to gain valuable information and share collective wellness tips for maintaining emotional well-being. Zoom Meeting ID: 845 9463 4675 Password: 959767 (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84594634675?pwd=Wi9HdWVBYnBaRXdtanZBZFMxN0VIUT09

On Monday, March 29, Ms. Sheard's guest will be Chekesha “Kay” Ellis, Author, Activist and Advocate. Her Book-A Life of Kayos: My Opioid journey through Hell, Hope & Healing is available for pre-order on chasenomore.org.
Ten years ago I embarked upon one of the most transformational journeys of my life. I know the feeling when everything falls out of place. You had plans for your life, and they all derailed. Your life has shattered into pieces. I felt like I was treading through a pond with weights strapped to my feet. I felt like I was living in a glass house and all of these things were happening to me but I couldn’t get out, and help couldn’t come in. While I struggled over a decade in silence, my closest family and friends and associates had no clue that I was abusing opioids. All they knew is that one day I’d be happy, one day I’d be sad. Happy when I had my pills, and sad when I didn’t. I felt like I was in prison and did a bid (spending 10 years in prison is street slang for doing a bid). I was a prisoner in my own life. My growth was stunted, I missed out on all the plans I had for my life, a college degree, financial stability, a husband, a house with a white picket fence, and a dog. I know it’s rough and I’m so sorry that you or someone that you may know is suffering with substance abuse disorder. I know you are confused and lost. Please hold on and hang in there. NEVER GIVE UP HOPE! For you, your loved ones, friends, colleagues or whoever!

To contact Ms. Sheard email lsheard@mhanj.org.