2018 National Prevention Week
Wheeler's Prevention, Wellness and Recovery staff and other members of Connecticut's prevention community took part in SAMHSA's National Prevention Week (NPW), May 13-19. Over the course of the week the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), along with a statewide committee led by Wheeler staff, increased public awareness of mental and substance use disorders through an array of activities, communications and educational outreach efforts.
The week was kicked off on May 14 with a Health & Wellness Fair and press conference at the State Capitol. DMHAS Commissioner Miriam Delphin-Rittmon and State Senator Tony Hwang highlighted the importance of substance abuse prevention and positive mental health. Local coalitions and agencies shared information about health and wellness, therapy dogs provided stress relief, and raffles were held throughout the day.
National Prevention Week culminated with a Hartford Yard Goats game on May 19 at which Commissioner Rittmon delivered remarks about the importance of prevention. The premiere of prevention-winning PSAs and fireworks also were part of this event.
