May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when we try to raise awareness of and reduce the stigma around mental wellness. In Los Angeles County, the Department of Mental Health (LACDMH) kicked off its annual campaign to host mental health events, both in person and online, to promote the importance of caring for your mental well-being.
During this Take Action for Mental Health LA County campaign, there will be 137 events. While only a small number of them will take place in the San Fernando Valley, they are worth taking note of.
One of the first takes place on Tuesday, May 12, at LA Mission College, where there will be dozens of information booths, wellness activities for students to take part in, including meditation sessions.
There are also events geared more towards seniors. On May 14 at Verdugo Park in Burbank, this event will focus on connection, movement, nutrition, music and, of course, mental health. Attendees can take part in Zumba or tai chi, and engage in mental health discussions and wellness circles.
Another pair of events will be held on May 16, both at the Ourika Ranch in Sunland. The first is in the morning for teens and young adults, while the other is for adults at least 21 years old. Participants can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides and be exposed to nature/animal-assisted activities meant to foster connections and support healing. The adult-only event, in particular, is meant for those who have struggled with substance abuse, health challenges and housing instability.
The last few events of the month in the valley will take place in the morning on Saturday, May 30. Starting at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, there will be an Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) cultural festival dedicated to healing, connection and community empowerment. In addition to dance performances and a fashion show, attendees can check out the booths with ethnic arts and crafts, henna artistry and local wellness resources.
Moving over to Arleta, there will be a wellness fair at Branford Park that, in addition to the usual booths with mental health resources, will feature speakers and panelists who will provide their insight on mental health awareness and discuss ways to reduce the stigma in the community that too often prevents people from seeking help.
And in Pacoima, there will be an outdoor Wellness Week – Youth Session at Mt. Gilead Baptist Church. It will provide youth with an interactive atmosphere where they can receive resources for total wellness, and a chance to hear from a wellness coach.
“Mental Health Awareness Month provides a vital opportunity for us to connect with communities across Los Angeles County and elevate the importance of mental health and well-being,” said LACDMH Director Lisa H. Wong in a statement. “At its core, this campaign is about strengthening connections, reducing stigma and empowering communities to prioritize their mental health every day.”
For more information on the Take Action campaign and a listing of all the events go to: https://www.takeactionla.com/.