Interlude’s Awards Breakfast Hosts Dr Charles Herrick

DANBURY — Current society tends to expect people to be readily available at all times. Many people have become accustomed to instant responses, and seem to become increasingly frustrated when they have to wait for anything very long.

Living in a state where one is always “on” can create anxiety and a state of feeling constantly overwhelmed.

“When was the last time you were able to sit down to read a book or just rest? Most of us are on the go from the minute we wake up until we collapse into bed,” said Interlude’s Executive Director Kathleen Deschenes

Interlude, Inc is a community-based mental health agency serving greater Danbury. Interlude’s Community Support Awards Breakfast will be held at the Ethan Allen Inn, May 4 at 8 am. Dr Charles Herrick of Danbury Hospital is scheduled to speak about how this prevalent lifestyle can affect one’s concentration, ability to sleep, and mental health in general.

Since 1978, Interlude has provided residential and community services to men and women diagnosed with a mental illness. Interlude provides three levels of residential services to those who are diagnosed with a primary psychiatric disorder and/or a co-occurring substance abuse disorder.

Each program is specifically tailored to the needs of its clients, ranging from a more intensive level of staff support to a less intensive level. The goal — independent and fulfilling lives in the community.

Carolyn, a client of Interlude, experiences the pressure of the fast pace of life, too.

“It seems like everyone is in a hurry these days” said Carolyn, who will speak at the breakfast event as well.

She will discuss the symptoms of her mental illness coupled with her learning disability and how they each present obstacles in her quest to rise above the tide of technology and fast-paced society. 

Carolyn currently works as a volunteer advocate for the Greater Danbury Mental Health Authority, where she assists with its grievance process and mediates between counselors and clients.

She will discuss the challenges of meeting her goal of becoming a full-time outreach worker where she can work as an advocate for people with mental illness.

Those interested in attending Interlude’s Community Support Awards Breakfast, or for more information, can call 797-1210 or e-mail info@interludeinc.org.

Eligible clients must be age 18 or older. Referrals may be sent to the Greater Danbury Mental Health Authority.