Knowing that access to information and resources, as well as community engagement, can help fight the stigma that for too long has surrounded the topic of mental health, the Board of Douglas County Commissioners adopted a resolution at their April 27, Business Meeting recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month.
The Board’s resolution is a reminder that mental health is a vital part of our overall health and encourages public education and activities to support mental health and help improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.
During Mental Health Awareness Month, the Commissioners urge everyone in our community to reach out to others and talk about our mental and emotional health. They hope to make it easier for you to start the conversation with these Let’s Talk videos to share with adults and youth in English and Spanish.
Our mental and emotional health is just as important as our physical health and now, more than ever, it’s important for us to connect with others. The coronavirus pandemic and mitigation efforts have greatly impacted mental health across the nation, with 40% of U.S. adults reporting symptoms of anxiety or depression at the beginning of 2021.
The resolution also brings attention to the critical work of the Douglas County Mental Health Initiative (DCMHI), a partnership of more than 40 organizations working to address mental health system gaps and dedicated to improving health outcomes for the residents of Douglas County.
People who need immediate support due to a mental health crisis should contact Colorado Crisis Services – call 1.844.493.TALK(8255) or text TALK to 38255. This agency has trained counselors who are available 24/7/365 to work with persons in crisis and the people supporting them.