CORVALLIS, Ore. – Benton County is celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month throughout May with events and initiatives to raise awareness and connect people with resources.
According to the Benton County Health Department, this year’s theme is “See the Person. Support the Journey,” a reminder that mental health is part of everyday life. The county is highlighting the importance of noticing early signs of mental health concerns, strengthening support systems and responding with care and compassion during challenging moments.
The Benton County Board of Commissioners will publicly proclaim Mental Health Awareness Month in Benton County on Tuesday, May 5 at 9 a.m. Meeting details and the proclamation are available on the Board of Commissioners Meeting Portal.
This recognition coincides with the expansion of hours coming in June at the new Benton County Crisis Center located at 240 Northwest Fourth Street on the corner of Fourth and Van Buren streets in downtown Corvallis. Starting June 1, the Crisis Center will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
“We’re excited to expand our hours at the Crisis Center starting June 1,” said Hailey Clark, Crisis & Forensics Program Manager for Benton County Behavioral Health. “This is something the community has been waiting for, and we’re happy to get one step closer to the overall vision of the Crisis Center.”
“The new hours will increase access to walk-in services outside of just the standard 8-5 model,” Clark said. “We will continue expanding access as we’re able to hire more staff for additional shifts.”
Anyone can drop in and ask for services to get connected to the mental health support they need. No appointment is required.
Community members can still access Benton County Crisis Services at all hours by calling 888-232-7192 to reach an on-call crisis counselor. Additional crisis services include the 988 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the National Crisis Text Line, both available around the clock.
The community is invited to contribute positive mental health messages to community-made paper chains that will decorate the lobby of the Crisis Center. Materials will be available at events including the Wildfire Readiness Fair, LBCC’s Springfest, Boys and Girls Club Family Night, Mental Health First Aid Training, Lincoln Elementary Carnival, Monroe Festival, Corvallis Spring Roll and Get Outdoors Day.
The Health Department will host, co-host, sponsor and participate in various events throughout May. The department encourages community members to participate in these activities and engage in conversations about mental health.
Organizations interested in mental health trainings for their staff and communities can contact BentonHealthyCommunities@bentoncountyor.gov to inquire. More information about mental health resources in Benton County is available on the Benton County Health Department’s website.