Lowcountry Mental Health Conference coming to Gaillard Center in July | Health

A Charleston event this summer will offer residents the opportunity to get mental health resources for themselves, a family member or friend.

Set for July 27-29, the 10th annual Lowcountry Mental Health Conference at the Charleston Gaillard Center will feature 14 mental health experts from around the world.

The Rev. Bryon Benton, senior pastor of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, will speak at the event. 

“I’m so glad that there’s a space where we can talk about (mental health), where we can address it,” Benton said. “Too often we wait too late.” 

David Diana, director of the conference, said the event is well-established for helping connect health care providers, mental health professionals and those seeking resources. 

“Mental health, personal growth and wellness is something we all work on throughout our lives, and this conference is a true gift to the Charleston community,” Diana told The Post and Courier.

Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg urged residents to attend, as he recalled yearly increases in mental health crises such as anxiety and depression brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“Answers, information and experts will be here for you, for all of us at the Lowcountry Mental Health Conference,” Tecklenburg said May 19 at a news conference about the event.

Billed as South Carolina’s largest mental health conference, the event will include an exhibit hall of more than 90 organizations displaying a wide range of mental health information and resources and conclude with a performance by the band Wild Ponies.

To register to attend, go to lowcountrymhconference.com. A virtual attendance option is also available. 

 Follow Zharia Jeffries on Twitter @Zharia_Jeffries.