May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time when organizations like the Mental Health Association of Cleveland County are working to raise awareness and destigmatize the issue. Melodie McSwain, the executive director of MHACC, emphasized the importance of mental health in our overall well-being, noting that it affects how we think, feel, and act. Just as we prioritize our physical health, caring for our mental health is essential for a fulfilling life.
The month-long celebration began with an information booth and an opportunity to paint kindness stones at the Foothills Farmers Market. It continued with a free community art activity at the Eugenia H. Young Memorial Library. MHACC has partnered with Cleveland Community College’s Pennington-McIntyre Art Gallery to host an Art Of Mind exhibit, which explores how individuals living with mental health concerns navigate the world. The exhibit will run from May through September with an artist’s reception on Monday at 3:30 p.m.
The celebration will conclude with a Storyteller’s Event at Got Books on Friday, May 24, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Speakers will share stories about mental health, resiliency, and hope. All events are open to the public at no cost throughout May, MHACC aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental health by encouraging individuals and organizations to take action towards promoting mental wellness in Cleveland County. The campaign page can be found at clevelandcountymha.org/mentalhealthmatters where people can sign up for “We Believe Mental Health Matters” pledge and receive a free sticker as their way of showing support towards this important cause.