On Sunday, May 19, Loma Linda University Behavioral Health hosted its 6th annual Stand Up to Stigma 5k event, which drew a crowd of over 600 participants. The event brought together staff, students, and community members of all ages to show support for mental health services.
May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, and events like the Stand Up to Stigma 5k help raise awareness and challenge the stigmas associated with mental health issues. In fact, statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental illness.
Health experts emphasize that mental health conditions should be treated with the same care and support as other health concerns within the community. The gathering at the family-friendly walk/run event underscored the importance of addressing mental health within the community.
Edward Field, MBA, the vice president and administrator of the Behavioral Medicine Center, spoke about the importance of community involvement in destigmatizing mental healthcare. He highlighted that recognizing the need for mental healthcare is just as crucial as recognizing any other healthcare need, and together, barriers to seeking help can be broken down.
While discussing mental health can be difficult, it’s an essential conversation to have for those struggling with anxiety, depression or any other mental health condition. The Behavioral Medicine Center is there to support and start the healing process while restoring hope for the future. To learn more or start your journey with an expert, you can access further information here.
