MEDIA ADVISORY
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Texas Health and Human Services Commission
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Date:?May 19, 2023
Contact:?Magaly Ayala
512-424-6951
[email protected]
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Cecile Erwin Young
HHS Executive Commissioner |
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HHSC Hosts Mental Health Creative Arts Contest Virtual Reception?
AUSTIN ? The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is inviting the public to participate in a virtual reception on Tuesday, May 23, to highlight art submissions and contest winners from the Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest.
?Every day, we fight the stigma that surrounds mental health through public education and by creating access to timely, quality mental health services,? said Sonja Gaines, deputy executive commissioner of Behavioral Health Services at HHSC. ?This contest highlights profound artwork while creating a connection with the community to bring awareness to a critically important topic. HHSC is excited to once again be a part of this inspiring event.?
The art contest highlights mental health and mental wellness as pivotal parts of overall health by showcasing Mental Health Awareness Month in May. The contest and reception are hosted by HHSC, the Texas System of Care, and the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health at The University of Texas at Austin. ?
?Why Does Mental Health Matter to You?? is the theme of this year?s contest. The goal is to start a conversation about mental health and to decrease the stigma often associated with mental illness by showing that recovery is possible.
The virtual reception will include a slideshow of the winning artwork, a poetry reading, a live question-and-answer panel with the artists, remarks from HHSC executive leadership and an opportunity to vote for the People?s Choice Award.
WHAT: Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest Virtual Reception
WHEN: Tuesday, May 23, 2023
WHERE: This will be a virtual reception.
Winners for original artwork, writing and photography across all age groups will be announced prior to the reception and posted on the Texas System of Care Gallery webpage.
?For more information about HHS programs, visit hhs.texas.gov.
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