Let’s chalk about mental health

Every May, Mental Health America observes Mental Health Awareness Month and encourages organizations from across the United States to join their initiative. This year, the Northwestern Community Services Board’s Prevention and Wellness Services is conducting its 3rd annual ‘Let’s Chalk About Mental Health’ campaign. This interactive initiative is designed to educate the community about the diverse aspects of mental health and how to reduce the stigma around seeking help when needed.

Launched on May 1, ‘Let’s Chalk About Mental Health’ will cover why relationships matter, how and when to reach out when you or a friend may be experiencing a mental health crisis, how to be there with active listening tips and tools, and how, together, we can find resources for self-help and professional help. The Prevention and Wellness team will share resources, facilitate discussions, and offer tips to start the conversation at home. Community members can access content through their social media accounts- @LordFairfaxYRA on all major platforms.

To join the discussion, individuals and organizations can share pictures, videos or posts using the hashtag #NWChalksAboutMH. “Through the campaign, we hope to foster conversations regarding mental health and breaking down barriers. We encourage the community to support those conversations by connecting others to resources and being there for someone in their time of need.” stated Rebekah Schennum, Prevention and Wellness Specialist. The Prevention and Wellness team hopes the campaign will reach community members of all ages and encourage a growing understanding of mental health and the importance of mental wellness.

Northwestern Prevention and Wellness Services
Prevention and Wellness Services at Northwestern Community Services Board has a mission to prevent substance misuse and suicide and to promote mental wellness in the Lord Fairfax Planning District. The Department utilizes evidence-based programs, practices, and strategies targeting concerns identified by needs assessments and using the Strategic Prevention Framework as its guide. An emphasis is placed on community collaboration and mobilization, enabling groups to be brought together for the benefit of the community. Find more information at nwcsb.com/prevention.