Dear Friends:

Anxiety. Frustration. Depression. Anger. These and other emotions are common for all of us during these challenging times. In recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month, I have invited two experts for tomorrow's Virtual Town Hall on mental health. Ashley Maliken from UCSF Benioff Child and Adolescent Psychiatry helps kids, teens and young adults manage their emotions, teaching them and their families how to cope with the changes COVID-19 has brought to our new reality. Dr. Maliken will be joined by Sarah Jean Flynn, Director of the California Peer-Run Warm Line, a free, state-funded peer counseling line providing 24/7 support for all Californians.

There's a lot to talk about. During this pandemic, our usual structure and routines have been disrupted, and we are no longer able to connect face-to-face with our support networks. We will discuss how to get support and stay mentally healthy during these times. You will get answers to questions like:

• What tools, skills and actions are helpful in regulating emotions?
• How can I support children, young adults, seniors and others around me?
• How do I take care of myself and why that is important?

The Town Hall will be hosted on my Facebook page. You do not need a Facebook account to watch. Please submit questions you have to my website. I hope to speak with you on Tuesday.

Virtual Town Hall

Tuesday, May 12, 2020
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

Let's continue supporting each other in staying California Strong,

Phil Ting
Assemblymember, 19th District