Placer County proclaims May as Mental Health Matters Month, with event Thursday in Roseville

Published April 25, 2024

This week the Board of Supervisors proclaimed May as Mental Health Matters Month in Placer County, reinforcing the county's commitment to raising awareness, breaking down stigma and promoting access to mental health resources. Placer County, in partnership with the local Campaign for Community Wellness (CCW), will host the first Placer4MentalHealth Wellness Fair on Thursday, May 2, in Roseville.

Last year, in an effort to destigmatize mental health and connect residents with resources, Placer County's Adult and Children's Systems of Care and CCW launched the "Placer4MentalHealth " campaign to share mental health stories and local resources. Residents can visit the website to sign a pledge to 'Be the Change' to help end mental health stigma.

This year, the new Wellness Fair will elevate the Placer4MentalHealth campaign to the next level. The free event, which will take place May 2 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Maidu Community Center in Roseville, will feature over 40 local mental health-related vendors, wellness workshops, complimentary food, raffle prizes and live entertainment from notable musicians and comedians including alumni from TV's "The Voice" and "The World Series of Comedy." To browse the full lineup and schedule, visit the event website.

"We recognize that even as demand for mental health services has increased, it can be challenging to navigate resources," said Kyle Jibson, deputy district attorney and CCW partner. "The Placer4MentalHealth Wellness Fair aims to support families in connecting with care while also having fun."

According to national statistics, one in five adults and one in six youth ages 6-17 experience a mental illness or mental health condition, yet only half will receive treatment in any given year. Placer County's systems of care served over 8,700 residents last fiscal year, offering a range of services including individual and group early intervention efforts, intensive mental health services, expanded community-based 24/7 crisis services, peer supports, school-based services and supportive housing.

"People facing mental health challenges often encounter stigma and feelings of isolation, making it crucial for communities to come together and provide support," said Sue Compton, a manager with the systems of care. "This event will be a one-stop shop of mental health resources in our community, regardless of age or insurance."

For those experiencing a mental health crisis, Placer County encourages residents to call the 24-hour crisis line at 916-787-8860 or 1-888-886-5401 for immediate assistance. Crisis resources offered by Placer County include:

• The Lotus Behavioral Health Crisis Center, a voluntary urgent care for individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises.
• The Mobile Crisis team, a 24/7 service that meets people in crisis where they are - whether in a park, at a school, in a shelter, at home, in a parking lot, or beyond.

Following the May 2 event, the county will continue to promote these crisis resources throughout May, including the launch of a new public service announcement.

For more information about Mental Health Matters Month and the Placer4MentalHealth campaign, please visit placer4mentalhealth.org or follow @placer4mentalhealth on Instagram and Facebook.

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