South Arkansas Regional Health Center to join national cause
EL DORADO— May is Mental Health Awareness Month and at South Arkansas Regional Health Center, members of the staff are inviting local residents to join millions across the nation to raise awareness about mental health conditions, said Maria Benson with the regional health center.
South Arkansas Regional Health Center is a private, notfor-profit community mental health center providing a full spectrum of professional mental health services to the residents of South Arkansas, she explained.
Two events are being planned locally to raise awareness about mental health conditions.
At 2 p.m. on May 5, a celebration and symbolic balloon release will be held on the grounds of South Arkansas Regional Health Center, 715 N. College, El Dorado and from noon until 2 p.m. on May 26, a Mental Health Awareness Rally will be held at the Old City Park on College Avenue across from South Arkansas Regional Health Center. Information concerning mental health will be given from various mental health professionals. There will also be hot dogs, popcorn, drinks, games, and lots more.
When you or someone you love is dealing with a mental health concern, sometimes it’s a lot to handle. It’s important to remember that mental health is essential to everyone’s overall health and well-being and mental illnesses are common and treatable, according to a news release from the SARHC.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five Americans will be affected by a mental health condition in their lifetime and every American is affected or impacted through their friends and family.
Benson said everyone should be aware that mental health is not an “us and them” issue and everyone should be aware that through no fault of our own, those of us that happen to be mentally healthy today might not be tomorrow.
“And finally, perhaps most importantly, we should all be aware that recovery is possible. Please join us as we strive to promote mental health awareness through education, early intervention and treatment so that all area residents may live full and productive lives,” she said.