One by one, some in twos, people walked into the South Bibb Recreation Center on to exercise, but not their bodies this time. This time, they were going to exercise their minds – stretching their perspectives, lifting their spirits, gaining tips to maintain a health mental health.

Macon Mental Health Matters (MMHM) held its first-ever, mental health symposium on Friday, May 23, and Saturday, May 24. The two-day event was aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of creating a trauma-informed community, particularly focusing on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their long-term impact.

“The panels were powerful, with such a good mix of voices, and you could feel people really listening and connecting with one another,” said MMHM Director Andrea Cooke. “I loved how engaged folks were in the breakout sessions, they weren’t afraid to share their own experiences or ask the hard, honest questions. Behind the scenes, the partnerships we built truly made this possible, and it felt like a real community effort.”

Breakout sessions included Mandated Reporter Certification Training, Public Spaces and Mental Health, Understanding ACEs, Law Enforcement & Community Mental Health, Protecting Student Mental Health, and more. Opening panels The Current State of Mental Health in Our Community and Holding Space for Our Neighbors, which included speakers such as Mayor Pro Tempore Seth Clark.

“The Macon mental health matters symposium was an incredible example of the honesty and collaboration that exists among Macon’s mental health providers, law enforcement, and local government,” said Clark. “I’m grateful for all their hard work and for the lives being changed daily because of their deeply impactful work.”

The event was free to the public and more than 200 people attended, including 56 speakers and volunteers. While it was the first, Cooke says it won’t be the last.

“I feel proud and deeply grateful. Seeing everyone come together like that reminded me why I’m so passionate about this work,” said Cooke. “This first symposium felt like planting a seed for real, lasting change, and it gave me so much hope for what’s next. This is this very reason that solidifies for me that Macon is the most mentally healthy city in Georgia.”

MMHM holds different classes and sessions throughout the year that are free and open to everyone. Click here to see upcoming events.