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County to Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month In May

Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnMjq3HKj4s

The San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) joins communities nationwide in celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month in May to highlight the importance of mental health in our communities. To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, DBH will host a variety of events for local community members and behavioral health staff to recognize the work they do year-round in advocating for and providing mental health services in our communities.

“May Mental Health Month serves as a reminder of the significance mental wellness has in our lives, touching the hearts and minds of countless individuals. The essence of mental health surrounds us, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in profound ways. Each year, we make strides towards ending the stigma attached to mental health. Through advocacy, support, and understanding, we can foster a more inclusive and compassionate community for optimum wellness.” says Dr. Georgina Yoshioka, Department of Behavioral Health Director.

On Saturday, May 11, DBH will host the Directing Change Award Ceremony, where students and young people learn about suicide prevention by engaging in a film contest. Local schools in San Bernardino County submit films, and DBH hosts a screening and award ceremony to celebrate their participation. This year, DBH partnered with the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools to engage teachers, advisors, and youth to participate and submit films. “Placing youth at the center of their well-being creates the possibility for real change. Inspiring adults to truly listen helps youth feel seen and heard and encourages youth to keep telling their stories. Providing schools and communities with the training and tools required to facilitate healing through creative expression allows safe spaces to emerge – empowering youth to reach out for help,” says Jana Sczersputowski, Executive Director of Youth Creating Change.

The department will also host a Meet the Artist exhibition and Opening Reception on Thursday, May 16, at the San Bernardino County Museum. This exhibition includes art submitted by upcoming artists in the county related to mental health awareness and overall wellness. It will be on display for the remaining month, and museum admission does apply.

To end the month, DBH and the Behavioral Health Commission will host Evening with the Stars on Tuesday, May 28, in Ontario. This event is in collaboration with the Department of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) as we bridge generations and create dialogue around mental health for this important population. This year's theme is “Roaring 20’s”; formal attire is encouraged. During this event, members of our local communities and contracted providers will be celebrated with an award ceremony for all their work promoting mental health throughout the year.

If you are interested in attending any of these events, registration is required and free of cost.

For more information, visit https://wp.sbcounty.gov/dbh/events/

About San Bernardino County: San Bernardino County is a diverse public service organization serving America’s largest county that for two consecutive years has led the nation in awards for innovation, efficiency, and outstanding public service. We are governed by an elected Board of Supervisors and dedicated to creating a community where nearly 2.2 million residents can prosper and achieve well-being in fulfillment of the Countywide Vision. It is comprised of 42 departments and agencies, which are staffed by more than 23,000 public service professionals who provide a wide range of vital services in the areas of public safety, health care, social services, economic and community development and revitalization, fiscal services, infrastructure, recreation and culture, and internal support. For more information, visit sbcounty.gov.