Gwinnett County's Mental Health Fair Breaks Stigma with Support and Solidarity

Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office held its fifth annual Community Mental Health Awareness Fair on Saturday. The event took place at Alexander Park’s Lois Lane Pavilion in Lawrenceville and drew hundreds of attendees. Organisers aimed to connect residents with vital support services while tackling the stigma around mental health. The fair brought together over 35 local groups offering resources like counselling, housing support, and medical care. Visitors could also access insurance guidance and treatment options. Alongside these services, the event featured entertainment, food, and participation from law enforcement agencies to foster a welcoming atmosphere.

Major Shakira Maldonado, who leads the sheriff’s office Mental Health Task Force, explained the event’s purpose. A licensed therapist herself, she emphasised the need to 'break the stigma' and encourage people to seek help. Maldonado highlighted that her team receives specialised training in de-escalation and collaborates with mental health professionals during crises. The fair is part of a wider push by the sheriff’s office to address mental health issues early. By providing support before situations escalate, the initiative aims to reduce involvement in the criminal justice system.

Residents left the event with information on available services and ways to access them. For those in immediate need, support remains accessible through the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988. The sheriff’s office plans to continue its efforts to strengthen community ties and improve mental health awareness.