NAMI Ruston

🌟 NAMI Ruston at the NAACP Arcadia Bienville Mental Health Symposium 🌟

NAMI Ruston was proud to provide an informational booth at the NAACP Arcadia Bienville Mental Health Symposium held on May 12, 2026.

The booth was facilitated by Kendra McMurry, NAMI Ruston Board Member, along with nursing students from Grambling State University. Attendees received valuable information about mental health awareness, available resources, and the importance of reducing stigma surrounding mental illness.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Ms. McMurry and the dedicated nursing students for their commitment to educating the community and promoting mental wellness. Through partnerships and community engagement, we continue to advance NAMI's mission of providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions.

💙 Men's Health Month: Prioritizing Mental Health 💙

June is Men's Health Month, a reminder that health includes more than physical well-being—it also includes mental and emotional health.

At NAMI Ruston, we encourage men to make their mental health a priority. Stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and life challenges can affect anyone, yet many men feel pressured to "tough it out" or suffer in silence. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness—it is an act of strength and self-care.

This Men's Health Month, we encourage men to:

🧠 Check in with yourself. Pay attention to changes in mood, sleep, energy, or stress levels.

💬 Talk about it. Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, faith leader, or mental health professional.

🏃 Take care of your whole health. Regular exercise, healthy eating, quality sleep, and stress management all support mental wellness.

🤝 Support one another. A simple "How are you really doing?" can open the door to meaningful conversations.

📞 Ask for help when needed. Seeking support is a courageous step toward healing and wellness.

Remember: Mental health is health. Taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body.

This June, let's work together to break the stigma, encourage open conversations, and remind every man that he does not have to face life's challenges alone.

💙 Men's Health Matters: Promoting Health, Hope, and Wellness 💙

Today, the Health and Hope Health Wellness Ministry of New Hope Baptist Church was honored to welcome Nurse Kendra McMurry as the presenter for their "Men's Health Matters" program.

Nurse McMurry provided valuable information emphasizing the importance of preventive screenings, knowing your numbers (including blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol levels, and body mass index), and recognizing that mental health is an essential component of overall well-being. Participants were also encouraged to adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, adequate sleep, and routine healthcare visits.

This informative session highlighted that taking proactive steps toward better health can lead to improved quality of life and early detection of potential health concerns. We were especially pleased that both men and women attended the program, demonstrating a shared commitment to supporting the health and wellness of our families and communities.

A sincere thank you to Nurse Kendra McMurry for sharing her expertise and passion for health education. Together, we can continue to encourage one another to prioritize wellness, seek preventive care, and foster hope and healing.

NAMI Ruston will be there!

NAMI RUSTON will be there!