All around Inyo County and throughout the nation, people are getting drenched for a good cause. Thanks to the USC Speak Your Mind Challenge.

But discussing the journey we all take to a healthy mental state and shedding light on the mental health struggles in our community are more than just a ‘one and done’ happening. The conversation around mental health should be an ongoing exchange of information, understanding, support, and love.

Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans’ lives and to celebrate recovery from mental illness. For more than 20 years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has recognized Mental Health Awareness Month every May to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being and provide resources and information to support individuals and communities who may need mental health support.

According to Inyo County Superintendent of Schools, Barry Simpson, “the Speak Your Mind Ice Bucket Challenge is a launching point for all of us to commit our support to changing how mental health is viewed and prioritized in society. Together, we can equip youth and young adults with the resources, training, and skills they need to advocate for themselves and create lasting mental health change.”

SAMHSA has designed each week of this month to learn and focus on specific topics significant in this fight for better community wide mental health. 

May 4-10: Building Strong Foundations for Children's Mental Health. This week highlights the importance of early mental health support, resilience, and self-care for children and teens.

May 11-17: Hope and Support for Serious Mental Illness and Serious Emotional Disturbance. This week focuses on raising awareness, reducing stigma, and promoting recovery for people living with serious mental illness or serious emotional disturbance and their families.

May 18-24: The Connection Between Mental and Physical Health. This week explores how deeply connected mental and physical health are.

May 25-31: The Power of Community and Connection in Mental Health. This week focuses on the role of community, support networks, and recovery in promoting well-being.