Indiana Black Expo introduces mental health series during Summer Celebration 2024

Indiana Black Expo began a new mental health series during its 2024 Summer Celebration this month.

The Mental Health Symposium is a two-part series designed to educate the local Black community on mental health and brain wellness. It was created by IBE, in partnership with the Indiana State Department of Health, as part of the Black & Minority Health Fair.

Edward Rodgers is the director of event management with IBE. He said the symposium aims to help people better cope with mental illness.

“Just helping them understand the valuable information and resources to support and advance their knowledge about brain health,” Rodgers said.

Part one of the series, held Thursday, focused on supporting seniors and senior caregivers with mental health challenges.

Part two, the “Cherish Your Mind” symposium, is this Saturday at the Indiana Convention Center. Discussion topics will include brain health, navigating health care systems and reducing the stigma of mental health conditions.

Journalist Ed Gordon will moderate the event. It is free and open to the public by registration.

ISDH Director for the Office of Minority Health Antoniette Holt said because minorities are disproportionately affected by chronic illnesses, access to health resources is valuable.

“I want to urge people to make the sacrifice of coming downtown and investing in themselves,” Holt said.

The Black & Minority Health Fair offers over $4,500 in free health screenings to attendees. The health fair has been a part of expo events for nearly 40 years in Indianapolis.

Contact WFYI Morning Edition newscaster and reporter Abriana Herron at aherron@wfyi.org.