Author: Behavioral Health
Date: 2024/4/18 10:37:18 PM
The San Luis Obispo County Department of Behavioral Health is encouraging community members to open up about their mental health during May Mental Health Awareness and take action at several events throughout May.
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif.—The San Luis Obispo County Behavioral Health Department is encouraging community members to open up about their mental health during Mental Health Awareness Month in May.
46% of Americans will meet criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition at some point in their lives, and half of them will develop a mental health condition by age 14 (Mental Health America). One of the best ways to ensure people get the help they need early on is through conversation. To facilitate these conversations, the department hosts many supportive community events and provides the community with resources to facilitate conversations about mental health.
“Just because you don't have a diagnosable mental illness doesn't mean you shouldn't take care of your mental health,” says Dr. Starr Graber, director of behavioral health. “Mental health should be treated the same way as physical health. That means talking to family and friends when you're not feeling well. If you're sick with the flu, many of us cancel plans with friends or take time off from work, but many people don't want to say, “I need today off to take care of my mental health.''
In addition to the May series of events, the department will kick off the month by commemorating Growing Grounds' 40th anniversary.th anniversary! The event will be held on Saturday, April 20th from 12pm to 5pm and will feature local bands, free ice cream, food trucks, and family-friendly art projects. At Behavioral Health, we offer potted succulent activities in our Growing Grounds Healing Garden. Park at SLO Naz Church, 3396 Johnson Ave. and take the shuttle around the corner to the event venue.
Behavioral Health is also partnering with Animal Services for Mental Health Month. Adopt an animal during May and receive a cute “Snuggles Soothe Struggles” bandana. Pets have been proven to support improved mental health by providing companionship, reducing stress and anxiety, increasing confidence and adding fulfillment to the day. Looking for a furry friend? Visit our animal shelter at 885 Oklahoma Ave, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 and visit our website for adoptable animals.
In addition to these events, the Department will hold its annual Bike Breakfast on May 16, 2024 from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. in San Luis Obispo. Free events are a great way to promote both Bike Month and Mental Health Awareness Month. Showing community support and recognizing the benefits of physical exercise for mental health.
To learn more about Mental Health Awareness Month, visit our website May Mental Health Awareness Month online. This month includes downloadable resources and activities to encourage our community to take care of their mental health. Community members can also show their support for mental health awareness by following Behavioral Health on Facebook and Instagram. Residents can access mental health services and treatment by calling SLO Behavioral Health's access line at 1-800-838-1381.
