Each year, Mental Health Day at the Capitol is held to educate Georgia legislators about the needs of its citizens with behavioral health problems.

This year two peers-- Jeanette Williams and Essie Fulks --  and two staff members from Perry Wellness Center --Chloe Millsaps, CPS and Amber Mimliston-Rechtoronivic, CPS, attended the Atlanta event on January 31, 2017. While there, they had the opportunity to hear powerful stories from people around the state who had graduated from the Respect Institute of Georgia. They were also informed on relevant bills and legislation that are currently under review by the Georgia Legislature.

Essie and Jeanette also had their photo taken with the current Mrs. West Georgia. Afterward, the group walked to the Capitol building, where the Americus group joined others in a discussion with mental health advocates and educators. The discussion focused primarily on recent changes and improvements in Georgia healthcare.

A highlight of the group’s trip was lunch with new, local Representative Bill McGowan, followed by a tour of the Capitol building. Rep. McGowan shared in frank discussion of local and state mental health concerns, offering his personal insights about directions in behavioral health legislation.

At the close of the day, Essie and Jeanette experienced the thrill of holding a genuine Olympic torch. Finally, the group participated in a photo session in front of the Jimmy Carter statue on the Capitol grounds.

It was an educational and enjoyable day for all our participants, pictured above with Rep. McGowan.