By Albert Arias, MD
PSV President
VCU Health Systems
Richmond, VA

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

I trust this letter finds you well and thriving. As we approach the vibrant season of autumn, it is with great enthusiasm that I write to you on behalf of the Psychiatric Society of Virginia.  As a sense of renewal fills the air, the Psychiatric Society of Virginia is delighted to present our Fall Newsletter, your gateway to a wealth of insights and updates in the world of psychiatry. Additionally, as our collective journey in advancing the field of psychiatry continues, I am honored to extend my personal invitation to you for our upcoming Fall Meeting.

Also, in this edition, we bring you a sneak peek into the exciting lineup of our upcoming Fall Meeting. Get ready to immerse yourself in a thought-provoking symposium as we delve into topics ranging from leadership analysis and political psychology to the psychiatrist’s role in the well-being of transgender individuals. Our renowned panel of experts will share their knowledge, fostering meaningful discussions that promise to enrich your professional journey.

Discover the heart of advocacy as we highlight our interactions with local legislators during the Friday evening reception. Explore firsthand accounts of key updates from our legislative advisors, offering a deeper understanding of our ongoing efforts to champion mental health awareness and access to quality care.

It is my sincere belief that your presence at the Fall Meeting will greatly contribute to the exchange of ideas and the expansion of our collective expertise. Your insights and engagement play an integral role in shaping the future of psychiatry in our region and beyond. I encourage you to register at your earliest convenience to secure your spot and take full advantage of the enriching opportunities that await.

In addition to the Fall Meeting, I would like to draw your attention to an equally important matter: the Psychiatric Society of Virginia’s Political Action Committee, PsychMD PAC.  Our PAC plays a crucial role in advocating for policies that support mental health awareness, access to quality care, and the overall well-being of our patients and our profession. As dedicated advocates for mental health, we understand the impact that informed legislation can have on our field. Your generous contributions to our PAC empower us to engage with policymakers and ensure that mental health remains a priority on the legislative agenda.

Your commitment to psychiatry is what makes our society thrive, and your support for our PAC directly contributes to positive changes that benefit us all. I urge you to consider making a contribution, no matter the size, to bolster our advocacy efforts and amplify our collective voice in the corridors of power.

I eagerly anticipate your presence at the Fall Meeting and your continued support for our PAC. Together, we can drive advancements in psychiatry and effect meaningful change in the lives of those we serve. Should you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team at [email protected] and 804-565-6377.

Thank you for your ongoing dedication to the field of psychiatry and your unwavering commitment to the well-being of our patients.