May is national Mental Health Month, and 2024 is an election year. So a presentation at Monday morning’s meeting of Perry Wellness Center peers and staff was particularly timely. Our newest peer associate, Aliyah Wilson, spoke on the topic, “Vote Like Your Mental Health Depends on It.”

The information was given in a fact-filled presentation, using information from the 2024 Mental Health Voter Guide. Aliyah shared sources for obtaining information, including some of the most relevant websites. Her presentation covered information on such topics as: Presidential candidate websites, local and state candidates, health policy, major party platforms, and voter registration information. Many websites were listed, as well as phone numbers.

After the delivery, Aliyah shared that the information she used could be copied and used for current and future voter education. Her important suggestion: “Look for the names of people you wish to vote for and declare Republican or Democrat for this portion of the election primary. The most important information that I can share today is VOTE! If you are not registered to vote, do that now and be ready for the next elections.”

One component of peer self-care and management is making sure that one’s mental health needs are represented in local, state, and national government elected officials. Our thanks to Aliyah, pictured above, right, during her Monday presentation.