Dr. Fran Close, a distinguished scholar and expert in public health, engaged in a discussion regarding various aspects of community health, education, and advocacy and also touched on an upcoming event this weekend that “The Mental Health Council of The Big Bend” will be hosting here at FAMU on Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
The Big Bend Mental Health Council’s Engage Subcommittee has actively developed initiatives to address mental health disparities in Tallahassee. One of their key events, Be Kind to Your Mind, focuses on family-oriented mental health discussions, while the Black Women’s Wellness Experience provides targeted support for Black women. The Black Men Mental Health Training was also created in response to findings from a community needs assessment.
Several years ago, this assessment highlighted significant gaps in mental health resources, particularly on the south side of Tallahassee. Recognizing these challenges, the Engage Subcommittee sought to create programs that addressed the community’s mental health needs. Their approach prioritizes holistic family well-being while acknowledging the pivotal role of Black women in family health decisions. The development of the Black Men Mental Health Training specifically aimed to fill the void in mental health support for Black men, an underserved demographic in the area.
One of the primary motivations behind this initiative is the need to support Black men in achieving mental and emotional wellness. The event encourages open discussions about mental health, helping to dismantle harmful stereotypes that associate seeking help with weakness. Organizers emphasize that individuals do not need to experience a mental health crisis to benefit from therapy; rather, treatment and other resources can aid in managing everyday stressors and life challenges.
This event has been held annually for the past three years. Initially launched in July during Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, the organizers later moved it to February—coinciding with Heart Health Month and Love Month—to increase accessibility. The shift allowed participation from key community figures such as coaches and barbers, who often serve as trusted advisors within the Black community. Additionally, the event incorporates QPR (Question, Persuade, and Refer) Suicide Prevention Training, ensuring that attendees learn to recognize warning signs and intervene effectively when someone may need additional support.
A key component of this year’s program is the inclusion of expert speakers. Dr. Sam Carter, a local leader involved in initiatives such as 24/7 Dads and various mentoring programs, will be the keynote speaker. Additionally, John Brown will lead discussions on Black men’s health. These sessions foster meaningful dialogue, allowing attendees to share personal experiences, gain valuable insights, and develop strategies to support their mental and emotional well-being.
In addition to the engaging speakers and breakout sessions, the Black Men’s Mental Health Training will also feature exciting prizes for attendees. As part of a raffle, participants canwin free gym memberships to local fitness centers, including Momentum and Premier, which are highly regarded in the Tallahassee area. Furthermore, winners will be offered free therapy sessions to encourage mental health support and well-being. The organizers hope these prizes will motivate individuals to take advantage of the mental health resources available, fostering a more holistic approach to health.
Dr. Close, one of the event organizers, emphasized the importance of these initiatives, stating, “We want to ensure that Black men in our community not only receive the mental health tools they need but are also motivated to maintain their physical and emotional well-being. It’s about giving them the resources and support to be their best selves—inside and out.”