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Central Kansas Mental Health Center
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, start conversations, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
This year, Central Kansas Mental Health Center (CKMHC) is focusing on the impact stigma has on individuals and families across our communities. Stigma—negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes about mental health—remains one of the biggest barriers to care. Fear of judgment often prevents people from seeking help, leading to untreated mental health conditions and, in some cases, crisis.
Locally, CKMHC’s community needs assessment identified stigma as one of the top five reasons individuals do not seek services. Statewide, nearly half of Kansans experiencing a mental health challenge do not pursue care, with stigma playing a significant role.
“Everyone has mental health, just like we have physical health, and it’s something we all need to care for,” said Alyssa Jewell, Education and Outreach Specialist. “Mental health challenges are common, and support makes a difference. Each of us can help reduce stigma by showing compassion and encouraging others to seek care.”
CKMHC encourages community members to take action this May by using compassionate language, increasing understanding through education, and helping normalize mental health treatment and recovery.
Throughout the month, CKMHC will host and support activities designed to raise awareness and reduce stigma:
Be Seen in Green
Be Seen in Green flyer provided by Central Kansas Mental Health Center
Green is the international color for mental health awareness, representing hope, strength, and support.
Community members are encouraged to wear green every Friday in May and share photos on social media using #BeSeenInGreenCKMHC to help spark conversations and show support.
Check Out Your Mental Health
Participating local libraries will feature mental health displays and recommended reading lists. Community members are encouraged to visit their local library to learn more and explore mental health topics.
Mental Health First Aid
This one-day training helps participants recognize the signs of mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and learn how to support others in seeking help.
The class will be held on Monday, May 4, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at Central Kansas Mental Health Center (809 Elmhurst Blvd.)
Lunch will be provided, and registration is required.
For more information, contact Alyssa Jewell at ajewell@ckmhc.org.
Steps to End Stigma
Steps to End Stigma flyer provided by Central Kansas Mental Health Center
To close out the month, CKMHC is partnering with NAMI Central Kansas to host “Steps to End Stigma,” a community walk focused on raising awareness and showing support for mental health.
Community members are invited to come together, take steps toward ending stigma, and stand in support of mental health for all.
The walk will take place at Jerry Ivey Memorial Park (2465 Edward St. in Salina) on Saturday, May 30 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Be among the first 50 to register by May 8 and receive a free event t-shirt!
Registration is encouraged by May 29, but not required.
Click here to register.
For more information about Central Kansas Mental Health Center, click here.