Suicide Prevention Network Staff left to right – Amy Roby, Michelle Simpson, Shauna Willette, Debbie Posnien, and Skyller Rice. Suicide Prevention Network host a pinwheel placing event for Mental Health Awareness month, which is observed in May, in front of the Carson Valley Museum and Cultural Center on May 4.
One-hundred pinwheels outside the Carson Valley Museum and Cultural Center spin a powerful message of hope and support for Mental Health Awareness Month.
Spearheaded by Suicide Prevention Network, Executive Director Debbie Posnien said 25 people braved the rain on May 4 to place the pinwheels as a visual reminder to prioritize and support mental health.
The event created an opportunity for connection, conversations and support in a welcoming environment centered around compassion and community care.
“It was a really nice event, and we made connections with people who really needed the support,” said Posnien.
Mental Health Awareness month is observed in May to help combat stigma, support and educate the public to prioritize mental well-being.
“Community members came out to plant pinwheels as a visible reminder that mental health matters and that no one should feel alone in their struggles,” said Suicide Prevention Outreach Coordinator Michelle Simpson.
Simpson said mental health is an essential part of overall health and impacts how people think, feel, cope with stress, build relationships, and navigate everyday life.
“Just like physical health, mental health deserves attention, care, and support,” she said. “Many individuals silently struggle with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, isolation, or life challenges, and community awareness plays an important role in helping people feel supported and connected.”
Events like the Pinwheel Planting help create safe spaces for conversations surrounding emotional wellness while also helping reduce the stigma that can prevent individuals from reaching out for help.
“Suicide Prevention Network believes that education, compassion, and human connection are powerful tools in suicide prevention and mental wellness,” said Simpson.
Suicide Prevention Network works to provide suicide prevention and awareness through intervention, education, and support services. Through outreach events, educational programs, support groups, and community partnerships, the organization strives to remind individuals and families that help and hope are available.
“Awareness starts with conversation,” said Simpson. “Mental health is just as important as physical health, and together we can continue building a stronger, more connected, and compassionate community.”
Suicide Prevention Network has events happening throughout Mental Health Awareness month including:
Wellness Wednesday Yoga with O2
Every Wednesday at 11am & 6pm – free vouchers from Suicide Prevention Network
Donut Worry, You Matter – free donut giveaway
Saturday, May 16 at Ranchos Aspen Park 9am – 10:30am
Mental Health Monday Walk
Monday, May 18 5:30pm-6:30pm
Healing Sound Bath Experience with O2 Yoga
Friday, May 29 at 6:30pm – free vouchers from Suicide Prevention Network
Visit Suicide Prevention Network at http://spnawareness.org/ for more information. If you, or someone you know is in a crisis, you can call or text the 24-hour Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988 or call 775-783-1510 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday.