May is proclaimed as Mental Health Awareness Month in Lackawanna County. From left: Commissioners Bill Gaughan and Thom Welby; Miki Drutchal, Lackawanna/Susquehanna Behavioral Health Program administrator; Jessica Chelik, director of Behavioral Health Services, Lackawanna/Susquehanna Behavioral Health Program; and Commissioner Chris Chermak. The commissioners noted that mental health affects the physical and emotional well-being of people from all walks of life, but the symptoms/issues are treatable. Effective intervention can save lives, but only 50% seek assistance due to shame, discrimination and social stigma. Untreated mental illness can lead to school dropouts, suicide or hospitalization. Greater public awareness of mental wellness helps to transform the public’s overall perception of it and enables people to secure much-needed help.