Leon County Schools Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month! May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an important time to focus on mental well-being and destigmatize mental health issues. Regardless of age, background, or experience, prioritizing mental health strengthens individuals, families, and communities. The theme for Mental Health Awareness Month 2025 is "Turn Awareness into Action". This year's theme encourages open dialogue to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, promotes the sharing of resources, information, and support systems for those struggling with mental health conditions, encourages self-care and the adoption of healthy habits that can contribute to a positive mental state, and raises the awareness of mental health issues. Get involved: • Talk about it: Have open and honest conversations about mental health with friends, family, and colleagues. • Seek Support: If you're struggling, don't hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals, support groups, or online resources. • Be Kind and Empathetic: Show compassion and understanding towards those who are struggling with mental health challenges. • Practice Self-Care: Prioritize your mental health by engaging in activities that bring you joy, reduce stress, and promote well-being. This May, let's make a conscious effort to prioritize our mental health and support each other on this important journey. It's a journey that benefits everyone. During the week of Monday, May 12 – Friday, May 16, 2025, please join LCS in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. • Monday: Move Your Body Monday (Exercise not only improves physical health, but also contributes to your mental well-being). • Tuesday: Thoughtful Tuesday (Write a note of gratitude to someone who contributes to your happiness.) • Wednesday: Wellness Wednesday (Self Care Day – Take a walk, one person dance party, read a book, unplug from social media, yoga, get eight (8) hours of sleep tonight, etc.) WEAR GREEN ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2025, to show your support! • Thursday: Time for Family Thursday (Family dinner, call an out of town relative, read to a family member, etc.) • Friday: Fuel your body Friday (Healthy Eating – eat more fruits, vegetables, and increase your water intake). ‘Getting Help' • 211 Big Bend - call for human service information and assistance. Available 24/7 to listen and provide emotional support, crisis counseling, suicide prevention, and information & referrals. • Emergency Medical Services. 911. o Tallahassee Emergency Assessment Mobile Unit (TEAM) – responds to non-violent 911 calls for service with individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Non-emergency calls – 850.606.5800 • Apalachee Mobile Response Team 800.342.0774 • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. suicidepreventionlifeline.org. 988. • Crisis Text Line. Text CRISIS to 741-741. crisistextline.org. Resources: SAMSHA, NAMI, National Council for Mental Wellbeing ~ Health, Wellness, and Student Services ~