Above: SYFS and other Town departments are offering ways to help the community “Come Together for Mental Health Awareness Month”.
Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) kicks off one week from today. Once again, Southborough Youth & Family Services is using the month of May to encourage the community to focus on mental wellness.
Working with other departments including the Southborough Library and Soutborough Recreation, they are offering talks, creative outlets, and other programs. (Most are free.)
You can take a look at the list of dates right. (Or open an interactive flyer here).
Below I’ve listed the events chronologically with more information, links, and flyers with additional details.
Teen Room Activities
All month long at the Southborough Library
Throughout the month, the library’s Teen Room will have activities to boost connection and well being, including sharing a recommended reading list and MHAM Bingo.
Community Read
Thursday, May 1st (7:30 pm)
Zoom
Discussion of the book, The Authenticity Project by Claire Pooley (Click here for dedicated post.)
Mini Art Kits
Pick up Thursday, May 1st to Wednesday, May 14th
While supplies last, the Southborough Library will be providing kits including mini painting canvases and easels for the community to use to express themselves and “take a mindful break”. The opportunity is for all ages. The results can be brought back to be displayed at the Mini Art Show opening on May 17th. (Scroll down for details on the show.)
Southborough Goes Green
Friday, May 2nd (All Day)
Town Wide
Southborough (and Northborough) are asking the community members to Go Green by wearing green clothes or ribbons to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month. (Look for ribbons around town.)
Preschool Story Time
Monday, May 5th and Tuesday, May 6th (10:30 – 11:15 am)
Southborough Library Children’s Room
SYFS will take part in the library’s regular drop-in story times for tots ages 0-2 with stories, puppets and songs. This week’sfocus will be connection and empathy. (See flyer.)
TLT: Friendship Bracelets
Wednesday, May 7th (4:30 – 5:30 pm)
Southborough Library Main Floor
Teens are invited to drop in to join the Teen Library Team of volunteers making friendship bracelets that will be given out in the community
Baby/Toddler Storytime
Thursday, May 8th (11:00 – 11:30 am)
Southborough Library Children’s Room
SYFS will take part in the library’s regular drop-in story time for kids ages 2-5 with stories and crafts. This week’sfocus will be connection and empathy. (See flyer.)
Encompass Engagement
Week Of May 12th (All Week )
In-Person and Online
The coalition that partners town and school staff from Northborough and Southborough for preventing and reducing substance misuse in the community will conduct “Outreach to Algonquin Students” throughout the week.
Shelf Help
Tuesday, May 13th (4:30 – 5:30 pm)
Southborough Library Main Floor
The second meeting of the 3- part community book group discussing the book Together by Dr. Vivek Murthy. (Read more in dedicated post.)
Family Yoga in the Park
Sunday, May 18th (12:00 pm)
Neary Stage/Field (Near Tennis Courts), 53 Parkerville Road
Southborough Recreation is putting on this free, family yoga session for all ages and skill levels. “Bring your yoga mats and loved ones for a fun and peaceful experience. Together, let’s prioritize our mental and physical well-being.” The session will be led by Emma Bartolini. Bring your yoga mat and water.
Mini Art Show
Saturday, May 17th (11:00 am – 12:00 pm)
Opening exhibition of the mini art pieces attendees made from the “grab and go” kits made available at the start of the month. The art will remain on display elsewhere in the library throughout the month. This program is open to all ages. Complimentary snacks will be provided. (Sponsored by The Friends of the Southborough Library)
The Value of Validation
Tuesday, May 20th (6:30 – 7:30 pm)
Southborough Library Eaton Room
A workshop focused on building stronger, healthier connections. Learn more about validation and how to use it to create more meaningful interactions with those around you. To register, click here.
Digital Wellness Lab
Wednesday May 21st (6:30– 8:00 pm)
zoom
The presentation by a member of Boston Children’s Digital Wellness Lab will teach new strategies to help your children navigate “A Digitally-Saturated World” and support their “Positive Media Use This Summer and Beyond”. Click here to learn more and here to register.
Mom’s Collage Night Out
Thursday May 22nd (7:00 – 9:30 pm)
Collage Art Studio, 205 Turnpike Road
(Note: Unlike the other events, this one isn’t free. Registration for this event through Southborough Recreation costs $50.) An evening focused on self-care through art expression. Southborough moms will explore their creative side through a fun and interactive collage activity. Click here for details and to register.
Celebrate Wellness
Wednesday May 28th (6:30 – 7:30 pm)
Community House
Wrap up the month with a reception to Celebrate Wellness — a community gathering focused on connection, reflection, and emotional well-being.
They will also honor Finn School teacher Julianne Topliffe, this year’s recipient of the annual Laurie Sugarman-Whittier Wellness Award.
