ALTOONA – Rising crime rates, high divorce rates and depression among the elderly all cause stress, according to a local expert in stress management.
Daniel Wilshire, Ph.D., a consultation and education specialist with Altoona Regional Center for Behavioral Health Services, is the featured speaker for a free program at 7 p.m. May 10 at the Ramada Altoona.
“Coping in Today’s World: Decrease Your Stress, Increase Your Awareness, Know Your Resources” is the topic in recognition of May as Mental Health Month, sponsored by Altoona Regional, Blair County MH/MR/D&A, Home Nursing Agency, Penn State Altoona Health & Wellness Center and NAMI of Blair County.
Wilshire will talk about sources of stress in our local society, why it exists and how to cope with it.
The keynote speaker for the evening is Joseph Antonowicz, M.D., medical director of Altoona Regional Center for Behavioral Health Services. He will provide an introduction to the physiological and psychological aspects of stress.
Also, a local panel of experts on the criminal justice system, schools, the elderly, faith communities and others will present a brief overview of stress from their perspectives and what resources are available.
Doors open at 6 p.m. with free information available from various community service providers. Alternative relaxation therapies, such as massage therapists, will be providing free demonstrations. Free refreshments. No registration required. For more information, call 889-2706.