Mental Health Awareness Month
May 2025
Flourish Together: A Community Approach to Mental Health
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. A time to bring education, awareness, and action around mental health.
This May, in Littleton and the surrounding area, we’re launching Flourish Together: A Community Approach to Mental Health - an initiative to raise awareness, educate, and empower individuals around the importance of mental health.
Mental health is something we all have, and it’s just as vital as physical health. By breaking down stigma, we hope to remind everyone that - just like our bodies - our minds need care and attention to thrive.
In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, it’s easy to feel like so much is out of our control. But our mental wellbeing is something we can influence. This initiative is about helping people reconnect - with themselves, with each other, and with the tools that support resilience and balance.
Throughout the month, we’ll be offering a variety of events and activities focused on mental wellbeing, stress management, emotional health, building supportive community connections, and more.
Our goal is to create welcoming spaces where people feel encouraged to care for their mental health, raise awareness and build skills, share their experiences, and support one another.
Together, we can create a community where mental health is prioritized and everyone can flourish.
May Calendar of Events
May 9th Title: Contemplative Bird Walk: Connect with Nature for Mental Health Time: 7am – 10am Location: TBD – participants will receive location details Speaker: Rebecca Brown Description: In celebration of International Migratory Bird Day and National Mental Health Awareness Month, local outdoor guiding service Spirit Guides is hosting a contemplative bird walk on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 7 – 10 a.m. It will be held in the greater Littleton area; exact location will be determined closer to the date. This guided experience offers participants the opportunity to practice what some call "slow birding," a mindful approach to bird watching that emphasizes complete immersion in the natural environment. Rather than focusing solely on species identification, participants will engage all their senses to connect deeply with birds and their habitats. "Traditional birding often emphasizes the checklist approach, but contemplative birding invites us to be fully present not only with the birds, but immerse ourselves in the environment around us,” says Rebecca Brown of Spirit Guides. "We'll learn to observe not just through sight, but through sound, movement, and context – we’ll ‘be the bird.’” The event aligns perfectly with Mental Health Awareness Month, highlighting the well-documented benefits of nature immersion for reducing stress, anxiety, and improving overall mental wellbeing. "The practice of slowing down and truly observing what’s around us in the natural world can help get us out of our heads and feel reconnected with ourselves, others, and this remarkable place we live in,” said Brown. To register, please contact spiritguidesnh@gmail.com, or call/text (603)728-5557. More information is at www.spiritguides.life. Space is limited to eight in order to ensure an intimate and meaningful experience for all participants. Spirit Guides offer contemplative outdoor experiences including birding, fly fishing, photography, and wandering. Rebecca Brown is a registered NH Outdoor Guide.
May 9th Title: Renee Rows The Atlantic for Trauma Recovery Programs in the North Country Time: 12pm – 1:30pm Location: Littleton Community Center Speaker: Renee Blacken Description: In January 2026, Renee will be solo rowing 3200 miles across the Atlantic Ocean as Team fOARtysomething. She is rowing to raise awareness of and funding for trauma recovery programs that integrate mind and body healing in northern New Hampshire. Renee will give a presentation on the expedition and the non-profit she's supporting, Outdoor Adventuring for Good. Why row an ocean? What does the boat look like? How long will it take? What's the food like? Is there a chase boat? What happens when Renee's not rowing? What about storms at sea? How can you get involved and support this expedition and cause? Come find out more!! This event is free and open to all!
May 12th Title: Granite Youth UP Conference (SPACE IS LIMITED!) Time: 5pm – 8pm Location: Mount Washington Hotel Speaker: Kevin Hines Description: What is the UP-Granite Youth Conference? The UP-Granite Youth Conference provides middle and high school students with training and support to foster leadership, community engagement, and wellness. Participants will have the opportunity to: •Attend a statewide conference focused on positive youth development, empowerment, and community impact. •Listen to nationally renowned speakers and learn strategies to promote health, well-being, and resilience within themselves and their communities. •Connect with peers and mentors to build a strong network of youth leaders. •Participate in engaging breakout sessions, including: oPodcasting oJuvenile Justice Jeopardy oPositive Relationships oGetting to Y! •Enjoy a complimentary dinner—PIZZA included! •Enter to win exciting prizes, including a kayak! •Receive a free t-shirt for every attendee. •And much more! Who Should Attend? •Middle and high school students •Teachers •Counselors •Youth-serving organizations committed to youth leadership and wellness How to Get More Information For more details about the UP-Granite Youth Conference, please contact: Greg Williams, North Country Health Consortium Phone: (603) 259-4797 Email: gwilliams@nchcnh.org Conference Outcomes By participating in the UP-Granite Youth Conference, students can expect to: •Increase their knowledge of physical and mental health resources. •Foster meaningful connections with peers and mentors. •Hear inspirational stories of resilience and perseverance. The UP-Granite Youth Conference is dedicated to educating, inspiring, and informing students about substance use disorder and behavioral health.
May 13th Title: Mental Health 101 with NAMI NH Time: 9am-10am Location: Virtual Workshop (see description for registration details) Speaker: Deb Jurkoic, NAMI NH Description: Let’s talk about mental health and resources in the granite state, challenge stigma, and focus on hope. Deb Jurkoic is the New Hampshire Family Network Coordinator at NAMI New Hampshire where she coordinates events, trainings and the delivery of information and resources for the youth, and their parents and caregivers, in the granite state. NAMI New Hampshire is a grassroots organization working to improve the quality of life for all by providing support, education and advocacy for people affected by mental illness and suicide. Register here: Forward Together Webinar Series: Mental Health 101 with NAMI NH | Diversify Thinking
May 13th Title: The State of Wellbeing in the North Country: A Community Conversation Time: 6:00pm-7:30pm Location: Iron Furnace Brewing, Franconia, NH Speakers: Paul Smith, Al Smith, Greg Williams, Nanci Carney, and Erika Sturgeon Description: Join five local leaders from across the North Country for an open and honest discussion about the mental health and wellbeing of our region. We'll explore what's working well, where there are opportunities for growth, and how each of us - as individuals and as a community - can take action to support a healthier, more connected future. Your voice matters. Come be part of the conversation!
May 14th Title: Flourishing at Work: The Business Case for Employee Wellbeing Time: 9am-11am Location: Adventure Ready Brands Speaker: Laurie Butson Description: In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, this session explores how organizations can foster a workplace where employees truly thrive. Laurie Butson of Cleared to Flourish will introduce the science of positive psychology and the PERMAV model, highlighting the connection between wellbeing, engagement, and business success. Learn how a culture of wellbeing can drive productivity, retention, and innovation in your organization.
May 16th Title: Granite United Way Day of Caring (Volunteer Day) Time: 9am-4pm Location: Littleton and Surrounding Area Description: Day of Caring is a community-wide effort that brings together volunteers and local businesses to provide short-term, project-focused volunteer service to our community's local nonprofit and public organizations. Register here: Day of Caring | Granite United Way
May 16th Title: Movement for Mental Health: A Free Class Sampler Time: 6pm-7pm Location: Marimo Dance Studio Main Street Franconia Description: Curious about what Marimo has to offer for adults? Try a little bit of everything in this fun, energizing Sampler Class featuring elements of Line Dancing, Dance Cardio Fitness, and Stretch & Flow. Whether you're looking to boost your heart rate, improve flexibility, or just enjoy the rhythm, we’ll move, groove, and feel better - inside and out! This free class is a joyful introduction to how movement can support your mental health and overall wellbeing. We'll explore how simple, guided dance-based movement can boost mood, reduce stress, and even support brain health and resilience…all in a supportive atmosphere. Plus, dancing in a group fosters social connection, helping you build confidence and community! No experience necessary - just bring your body, your breath, and your curiosity. Let’s move toward feeling good, mentally and physically!
May 17th Title: Stress Awareness and Management Time: 1:30pm-3:30pm Location: Dust Off Yoga, Tannery Marketplace Speaker: Jennifer Green Description: Taming the Monkey Mind Stress: Neuroplasticity, and the Journey to Healing Chronic stress doesn’t just live in our thoughts — it reshapes the brain, body, and nervous system. But healing is possible. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we invite you to a free, trauma-informed workshop exploring the real impact of stress and how mindful practices can support recovery, resilience, and sense of ease. In this 2-hour session, you’ll learn: • How chronic stress and trauma change the brain, body, and nervous system — and why it’s not “all in your head” • Why common experiences like tension, anxiety, and overwhelm are natural survival responses • How trauma-informed yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help rewire stress patterns, nurture a sense of internal safety, and quiet the “monkey mind” You’ll be gently invited (never required) to experience simple, accessible practices that support grounding, body awareness, and emotional regulation. Everything will be offered with choice, empowerment, and deep respect for your unique experience — no yoga or meditation background necessary. Whether you’re curious about the mind-body connection, seeking practical tools for stress relief, or simply looking for a welcoming space to recharge, this workshop offers a chance to learn, heal, and connect within community. Free and open to all. Come exactly as you are
May 18th Title: What about Bob? Time: 11am Location: Jax Cinema, Littleton Join us for a screening of What about Bob? a classic comedy that explores therapy, anxiety, and the journey toward personal growth, with plenty of laughs along the way. While lighthearted, the film opens the door to important conversations about the realities of mental health, the therapeutic process, and how we support one another. Come enjoy a fun event out that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking! All movie attendees will receive a discussion guide to take home to encourage more discussion after the film.
May 18th Title: Teen/Pre-Teen Soundbath Time: 4:00-5:00 Location: Dust Off Yoga, Tannery Marketplace Speaker: Jennifer Green Description: Feeling stressed, anxious, or just overwhelmed? You’re not alone - and you don’t have to carry it all by yourself. In a world that moves fast and asks a lot, this sound meditation offers a much-needed pause. This free Teen Soundbath is a special event for Mental Health Awareness Month, created just for preteens and teens to rest, reset, and recharge in a calm, supportive space. This isn’t your average meditation. You’ll get to lie down, get cozy, and just listen as calming sounds from crystal bowls, Himalayan singing bowls, and Koshi chimes help your body relax and your mind slow down. No pressure to talk, share, or be anyone but yourself. We’ll start with simple breathing exercises to settle your nervous system, then drift into a sound journey designed to: • calm stress + anxiety • release tension from the body • improve focus, sleep, and emotional balance • build a deeper sense of safety + inner peace You might also experience optional gentle movement, aromatherapy, or affirmations—always your choice, always supportive. Open to ages 12-18 | Free to attend | No experience needed Bring a friend or come solo. Just show up and rest. May 18th 4pm for Preteen/Teens in 7-8th grade May 24th 4pm for Teens currently in high school Spots are limited—sign up now! www.dustoffyoga.com
May 20th Title: Introduction to the Science of Wellbeing – From Languishing to Flourishing Time: 5:30-7:00 Location: A Place Above the Notch, Bethlehem, NH Speaker: Laurie Butson Description: There are many myths around mental health and overall wellbeing. Sometimes it’s hard to know what to believe and what to focus on. At a fundamental level, it’s important to recognize that we all have the capacity to thrive and flourish, with the right tools, skills, awareness, and support. This interactive workshop will provide you with an overview of the science of Positive Psychology, the science of wellbeing and human flourishing. We will explore the six pillars of Positive Psychology (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Achievement, and Vitality) and you will walk away with ideas and an action plan to increase each area.
May 21st Title: Hope and Help: A Conversation on Suicide, Awareness, and Prevention Time: 5pm-6pm Location: Littleton Community Center, Main Street Speaker: Lynn Craig Description: Suicide touches many lives, but by increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and knowing how to offer support, we can make a difference. This important conversation will explore risk factors, signs to watch for, ways to help someone who may be struggling, and local and national resources for support. Together, we can build a community where no one feels alone, and where asking for help is seen as a sign of strength. This session will be led by someone with lived experiences with these topics.
May 23rd Title: Yoga Therapy Time: 4:00-5:00 Location: Tannery Marketplace Speaker: Meggen Wright Description: Please Bring a large towel or yoga mat and a small pillow for your head. We will be taking our shoes off. Your Host: Meggen Wright, C-IAYT Certified Yoga Therapist and owner of Restorative Health Therapies "This gentle one-hour yoga therapy group offers a deeply relaxing experience, either on the floor or in a chair. Through guided breath, mindful movement, and somatic awareness, participants are invited to slow down, release tension, and reconnect with their bodies in a safe and supportive space."
May 24th Title: Teen Soundbath Time: 4:00-5:00 Location: Dust Off Yoga, Tannery Marketplace Speaker: Jennifer Green Description: Feeling stressed, anxious, or just overwhelmed? You’re not alone - and you don’t have to carry it all by yourself. In a world that moves fast and asks a lot, this sound meditation offers a much-needed pause. This free Teen Soundbath is a special event for Mental Health Awareness Month, created just for preteens and teens to rest, reset, and recharge in a calm, supportive space. This isn’t your average meditation. You’ll get to lie down, get cozy, and just listen as calming sounds from crystal bowls, Himalayan singing bowls, and Koshi chimes help your body relax and your mind slow down. No pressure to talk, share, or be anyone but yourself. We’ll start with simple breathing exercises to settle your nervous system, then drift into a sound journey designed to: • calm stress + anxiety • release tension from the body • improve focus, sleep, and emotional balance • build a deeper sense of safety + inner peace You might also experience optional gentle movement, aromatherapy, or affirmations—always your choice, always supportive. Open to ages 12-18 | Free to attend | No experience needed Bring a friend or come solo. Just show up and rest. May 18th 4pm for Preteen/Teens in 7-8th grade May 24th 4pm for Teens currently in high school Spots are limited—sign up now! www.dustoffyoga.com
May 25th Title: Movie Showing: Inside Out Time: 11am Location: Jax Cinema, Littleton Description: Join us for a free community screening of Inside Out, the heartwarming Pixar film that takes us inside the mind of a young girl navigating change, emotions, and growing up. This animated favorite gently shows how all our feelings, even the hard ones, play a role in our wellbeing. It’s a perfect way to spark conversations about mental health, emotional awareness, and the power of connection. All ages welcome — bring the whole family! All movie attendees will receive a discussion guide to take home to encourage more discussion after the film, as well as a complimentary Emotions Tool.
May 27th Title: Bookclub Discussion: Courage Time: 6:00-7:00 Location: Littleton Public Library Speaker: Laurie Butson Description: Join us for a special book club discussion of Courage, a powerful collection of stories exploring what it means to face life’s challenges with bravery, vulnerability, and hope. This session will be especially meaningful, as one of our very own community members, Laurie Butson, a contributing author, will be there to share reflections and facilitate the conversation. All participants can pick up a free, signed copy of the book to keep at the Littleton Library prior to the event. Come connect, reflect, and discover how stories of courage can inspire us all to keep showing up for ourselves and each other.
May 29th Title: Mental Health Awareness Fair Time: 3:00-7:00 Location: Tannery Marketplace, Littleton NH Description: Come explore resources, services, and support available right here in our region at the Flourish Together Mental Health Awareness Fair. This free, drop-in event brings together a wide range of local providers, organizations, and wellness professionals, all committed to supporting mental health and wellbeing in our community. Whether you're looking for information, inspiration, or just a chance to connect, you'll find welcoming faces, helpful tools, and empowering conversations. Let’s learn, share, and strengthen our community together. Light refreshments will be served and the White Mountain Community Chorus will be joining the event to provide musical entertainment.
May 31 Title: Wellness Open House Time: 3:00-5:00 Location: Nikki Trusca, Massage Therapy and Reset Wellness Space Description: Join us for a informational and experiential Open House, where you can learn more about each of the modalities available at our Reset Wellness Space, as well as how each modality promotes certain physiological responses that lead to lowering stress and ties to our overall wellbeing. Demos of each of the units will be available.
May 26 Title: Nature Calling: A Community Walk Time: 9am Location: Bretzfelder Park, Bethlehem NH Join us for a community walk in nature. It will be reflective, energizing, and community focused. Enjoy nature and good company!
May 29th Title: Community Sing: White Mountain Voices Time: 5:00-6:00 Location: Tannery Marketplace, Littleton NH Description: Join us for a Community Sing, with White Mountain Voices at The Tannery Marketplace at 5pm on Thursday May 29. Come to sing-along or simply enjoy the joy of beautiful music! This will happen alongside the Mental Health Fair that will also be held at the Tannery Marketplace the same day from 3-7pm. Come explore resources, services, and support available right here in our region at the Flourish Together Mental Health Awareness Fair. This free, drop-in event brings together a wide range of local providers, organizations, and wellness professionals, all committed to supporting mental health and wellbeing in our community. Whether you're looking for information, inspiration, or just a chance to connect, you'll find welcoming faces, helpful tools, and empowering conversations. Let’s learn, share, and strengthen our community together. Light refreshments will be served and the White Mountain Community Chorus will be joining the event to provide musical entertainment.
Register Here
Resouces Section:
North Country Mental Health Service Providers
NFI North
White Horse Recovery
Center for New Beginnings
White Mountain Mental Health
Northern Human Services
North Country Peer Support
Northeast Family Services
North Country Health Consortium
Littleton Regional Hospital
Ammonoosuc Community Health Care
211 Hotline
988 Hotline
Ask Petra
NAMI NH
Mental Health America