In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the National Alliance on Mental Illness Lake County, OH, encourages residents to prioritize their mental well-being and connect with free, local resources that support individuals and families across the community.
Mental Health America founded Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949 and has led the effort every May to promote mental wellness nationwide, in partnership with multiple agencies, affiliates and nonprofits.
It is observed in May.
The designation aims to elevate the conversation around mental health, reduce stigma and motivate individuals and families to seek support when needed.
Officials noted that NAMI Lake County is proud to join communities across the country in raising awareness and providing free, life-changing resources to residents.
“Mental health continues to be a critical issue in Ohio and locally in Lake County,” said NAMI Lake County Executive Director Matt Selker. “According to recent statewide data, more than 2.1 million Ohio adults live with a mental health condition, and nearly 4 in 10 adults report symptoms of anxiety or depression in recent years.”
Locally, community health assessments indicate that suicide rates in Lake County remain higher than both state and national averages, reinforcing the need for increased awareness, prevention and access to care.
“These are not just statistics,” Selker added. “These statistics represent our neighbors, coworkers, friends and family members. These numbers reinforce what we see every day — mental health challenges are common, but help and hope are also available.
“Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to remind our community that support is available, recovery is possible, and no one has to navigate mental health challenges alone.”
NAMI Lake County strongly encourages individuals to take small, practical steps that can have a meaningful impact on mental well-being by:
• Staying connected – talk with trusted friends, family or peers
• Prioritizing sleep and physical activity – both are strongly linked to improved mood
• Limiting isolation – engagement and belonging are protective factors
• Sharing your story – lived experience reduces stigma and fosters healing
• Seeking support early – mental health care is most effective when accessed proactively and consistently researched
Throughout the month, NAMI Lake County will host a range of free programs designed to educate, support and empower individuals and families, including family- and peer-led support groups, connection recovery support groups, community presentations and outreach activities.
A calendar of events, including dates, times and locations, is available at www.namilakecountyohio.org.
All programs are offered at no cost, Selker noted.
“We serve individuals who are insured, uninsured and underinsured,” he said. “Removing barriers to access is central to our mission and critical to improving outcomes, not just for individuals, but for families, workplaces and the broader community — access to support should never depend on someone’s ability to pay.”
Selker added that May also serves as a “community call to action” in building a stronger, healthier county.
“Mental health is community health,” he said. “When we invest in awareness, connection and support, we strengthen Lake County as a whole. Connection is one of the most powerful tools we have — when people feel seen and supported, outcomes improve.”