In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing mental health disparities, Hyattsville, Maryland, has launched a pilot program offering free, bilingual mental health services. This initiative, running through June 2025, is a collaboration between Hyattsville officials and the Hope Center for Wellness. The program, aptly named "In Wellness We Thrive," is designed to cater to the unique needs of Hyattsville's predominantly Latino and Black community.
Cheryl Aguilar, the foundation director at the Hope Center for Wellness, highlights the critical importance of providing culturally appropriate services. “There’s a negative stigma in our communities, the Latinx communities, Black communities and many other communities of color, about mental health,” Aguilar explained to News4. This stigma, coupled with a lack of access to multilingual and bilingual services, creates significant barriers to mental health support.
Aguilar emphasizes, “Different communities deal with mental health differently. We will look at how the community views mental health, what support they have already turned to, and what strengths they already have within them that we can tap into our therapeutic services.” This community-centric approach ensures that the services are not only accessible but also resonate with the cultural values and practices of the residents.
The "In Wellness We Thrive" program offers bilingual therapy sessions for individuals and families, specifically targeting children, youth, and young adults aged 6 to 21. These sessions are available by appointment and can be conducted in person at the Hyattsville city building or virtually, providing flexibility to accommodate different needs.
In addition to therapy sessions, the program features hands-on art workshops for middle and high school students. These workshops, which include activities like painting, drawing, sculpting, and music, are designed to help students explore their emotions, facilitate healing, and encourage personal growth. Students can enroll in these workshops through Recdesk on the city of Hyattsville’s website.
Moreover, the program will host community workshops for larger groups throughout the year. Residents can sign up to receive alerts about upcoming events, ensuring they stay informed about the various opportunities available.
Registration for the program prioritizes families without medical insurance and those with an annual income below a certain threshold. Pre-registration is currently open, and therapy services officially began on July 1, 2024. Residents interested in participating can sign up through the city of Hyattsville’s website.
The "In Wellness We Thrive" program represents a significant step forward in addressing mental health disparities in Hyattsville. By offering free, bilingual services that are culturally sensitive and accessible, the initiative aims to break down barriers and foster a healthier, more resilient community. As Hyattsville continues to roll out this program, it sets a powerful example of how local communities can take proactive steps to support the mental well-being of their residents.
For more information on how to access these services or to stay updated on upcoming workshops, visit the City of Hyattsville’s website. Let's work together to create a community where wellness truly thrives.