LA County Supervisors Approve Mental Health Awareness During May 2024

LOS ANGELES —The County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion, introduced by Supervisor Kathryn Barger and co-authored by Board Chair Lindsey P. Horvath, proclaiming May 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month in Los Angeles County.

“This proclamation is about placing a public spotlight on the important role mental health plays in every aspect of our lives,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “So many of the issues negatively impacting our communities–including violent attacks on our streets—are the products of unidentified or untreated mental illness that has festered. We must do a better job of recognizing mental health trauma and addressing it as early as possible. This proclamation is one more step towards generating community awareness so that mental health services are accessed and used to heal.” 

During the month of May, Los Angeles County’s Department of Mental Health or DMH will collaborate with over 70 community-based organizations to host more than 180 events, made possible with support from the California Mental Health Services Authority or CalMHSA. 

The events are organized as part of DMH’s Take Action Los Angeles County multicultural campaign for the county’s diverse residents.  DMH will also co-host a Mental Health Awareness Night with Los Angeles Dodgers during the team’s home game May 4. 

This year’s community events include free yoga and meditation, art and music, block parties, a 5K run/walk, the Healing Bus and more. All events will focus on decreasing stigma and discrimination, increasing help-seeking behaviors, and increasing access to mental health services and resources. 

Details: TakeActionLA.com/events.