MADISON (WKOW) — Mental Health Awareness Month is personal for many of the staff members at Journey Mental Health Center, according to Development Director John Lica.
“Most of us have lived experience navigating mental health challenges,” Lica said during an interview with WKOW. “I don’t think many of us have to look too far, either within ourselves, our families, schools or communities, to know someone who’s been impacted by mental health.”
Lica said Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to encourage people to seek support and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health struggles.
“There’s often a lot of shame involved with struggling,” he said. “We need to keep showing up for the people in our lives and continue offering opportunities to be there for them when they need it most.”
Journey Mental Health Center is hosting several events throughout May aimed at raising awareness, building community and supporting mental health services.
Among the events is a youth mental health luncheon highlighting the organization’s work in 10 Dane County school districts, where staff members screen students for depression, trauma and suicide risk.
The organization is also hosting a fireside chat with Olympic marathon bronze medalist Molly Seidel, a Wisconsin native who has spoken publicly about her mental health journey. Lica said Seidel will discuss her experiences after seeking treatment shortly after competing in the Tokyo Olympics.
Journey Mental Health Center recently held a Drag Bingo fundraiser as part of its Mental Health Awareness Month programming.
Lica encouraged anyone seeking support for themselves or a loved one to visit the organization’s website for resources and connections to services, including therapy and psychiatry options.
“We’re a good entry point for getting people connected to help,” he said.