GREENVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – ECU Health is hosting its 12th annual Mental Health Expo intending to connect community members with important resources.

The event will feature guest speakers and more than 40 exhibitors from service organizations who will be available to answer questions and provide information about local mental health and substance abuse resources.

This year’s expo is free for individuals, family members, caregivers, and providers.

ECU Health Behavioral Health Administrator Glenn Simpson spoke on WITN News at Sunrise in the 6 a.m. hour about what ECU Health is doing for Mental Health Awareness Month, why it’s important, and how someone can improve their mental health.

He says asking for help is more than half the battle. Simpson suggested a trusted friend, family member, and/ or the national hotline, 988. He says calls made in North Carolina are directed to a call center in Pitt County.

That’s not the only resource available, according to Simpson the Mental Health Expo in Greenville has an array of resources for mental health care, substance abuse resources, and presentations.

Topics for featured presentations include managing stress in everyday life, gaining a better understanding of the nervous system to navigate traumas, and comprehending addiction as a disease and the stigma around treatments.

Today’s expo will be held at Eastern AHEC off 2600 West Arlington Boulevard in Greenville from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.