Imperial County celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month

IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) - Imperial County is celebrating National Mental Health Awareness Month by embracing a collective mission, fostering community connection under this year's theme: 'More Good Days, Together.'

The campaign focuses on fostering community support, reducing long-standing stigmas, and connecting residents with vital wellness resources.

Experts define mental health as our emotional and social well-being, a critical factor in how we navigate daily life.

From anxiety and depression to more complex conditions like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, Imperial County Behavioral Health Services (ICBHS) Deputy Director Gabriela Jimenez emphasizes that every struggle is valid.

She notes that no form of mental health challenge is "greater" than another; all deserve attention and care.

To bring this mission to the streets, ICBHS is hosting a Mental Health Awareness Walk this Thursday, May 7. The event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the MLK Pavilion (770 Park Ave).

Organizers invite the public to join the walk to inspire hope and raise awareness.

The event also serves as an open house for those struggling to see firsthand the plethora of support services available locally.