The progress we make in mental health is only possible because of the compassion and trust we share in our communities.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an annual observance established by Mental Health America in 1949 to emphasize the importance of mental well-being. It was created as a way to educate the public about mental health and reduce the stigma that can be associated with mental illness.
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH), the NAH Office of Philanthropy and title sponsor Health First Foundation are partnering with local organizations and businesses to host a series of Mental Health Awareness events, as well as a special fundraiser in support of mental health resources for our local first responders.
Throughout May, local businesses are donating a portion of their proceeds to NAH’s Mental Health Matters for First Responders program, which supports NAH’s Guardian Air and Guardian Medical Transport first responders in receiving critical mental health support. The program, which launched in 2023, provides confidential counseling, crisis debriefing and other resources to help these community heroes process the trauma they experience daily on the job and maintain their own mental wellness.
Deals from Local Businesses to Support Mental Health Matters for First Responders:
Please note, the national mental health hotline is 988. When you call or text this number, you are connected with crisis intervention services here in Arizona. Some local businesses are using the 988 number in some of their offerings this month to bring awareness to the hotline.
Allure AZ Med Spa
Offering 15% off the Angela Joy Facial throughout May. The 60-minute treatment is available for $148, with a portion of the proceeds donated to NAH’s Mental Health Matters for First Responders program.
Brightside Bookshop
Donating 20% of proceeds from all journals and mental health books purchased through May.
Mountain Sports Flagstaff
Selling Mental Health Matters t-shirts throughout the month.
Pay ‘N Take Beer and Wine Bar
Featuring 988 Beer as its Community Tap. May is also a time of remembrance for Scott Miller, the former owner of Pay ‘N Take. In his honor, $1 from every Community Tap pour will be donated.
Rainbow’s End
Selling Mental Health Matters t-shirts throughout the month.
Shift Kitchen & Bar
For every 988 Mocktail sold, $1 will be donated.
Events:
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, there will be a series of Mental Health Matters events running throughout May. Below is a sample of some of the events, to see the full list, please visit nahealth.care/mental-health-matters.
Tuesday, May 5:
Native Americans for Community Action (NACA) Wellness Open House
Time: 8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Location: NACA Wellness Center, 1500 E. Cedar Ave., Ste. 52, Flagstaff
Description: The Native Americans for Community Action (NACA) Behavioral Health Center prioritizes mental health for the Flagstaff community by offering counseling that honors customs, culture and beliefs. This event is free and open to the public.
Tuesday, May 12:
Mental Health Awareness Month Proclamation
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Flagstaff City Hall, 211 W. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff
Description: The Flagstaff City Council will issue a formal proclamation declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This public announcement recognizes the resilience of those living with mental health conditions and honors the dedication of professionals and loved ones supporting them. This event is free and open to the public.
Thursday, May 28:
Blind AF Screening & First Responder Fundraiser
Time: 5-8 p.m.
Location: Cline Library, 1001 S. Knoles Dr., Flagstaff
Description: Join NAH and Redemption Counseling Center for a special screening of Blind AF, a unique cinematic experience and capstone event to raise funds for our local first responders. This gathering highlights the vital importance of mental health support for those who serve our community. Admission is free, and donations are gratefully accepted to support our local first responders.
The progress we make in mental health is only possible because of the compassion and trust we share in our communities. NAH is thankful for our community partners who have joined us in this effort. We send our gratitude for allowing us to be your partner in building a healthier, more connected community. FBN
By Maraka Oltrogge
To learn more about NAH’s Behavioral Health and Psychiatry services, please visit https://www.nahealth.com/behavioral-health-and-psychiatry/.
Readers can also visit, nahealth.care/mental-health-matters for more details about Mental Health Awareness Month.
Maraka Oltrogge is the vice president of philanthropy at Northern Arizona Healthcare.