Together for Mental Health Awareness Month

Published on May 09, 2022

Over the past two years, the pandemic has been especially challenging for many of us. Mental health conditions are one of the most common health conditions worldwide, and the pandemic has triggered an increase in the prevalence of anxiety and depression. Your mental health is more important than ever.

The green ribbon is the symbol for mental health awareness. This month, we encourage you to wear a green ribbon to show colleagues, loved ones, or simply those you walk past that you care about their mental health.

Join these upcoming events

Mental Health Open Mic
Wednesday, May 11
6-7:30 p.m.
San Mateo County Poet Laureate Aileen Cassinetto acts as emcee as we bring our voices together to break the silence surrounding the mental health impacts of the pandemic. Whether in poetry, storytelling, or music, join us in this safe space where you can share your own words, or listen to those of others

Frances Ancheta Performs Music for Mental Health
Thursday, May 19
7-8 p.m.
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness month, enjoy some beautiful music and personal tales of healing. Singer/songwriter and musician Frances Ancheta will share a performance combining her acoustic music (vocals, acoustic guitar) with storytelling of her life experiences as a survivor of both postpartum depression and breast cancer survivor. Frances will be singing a combination of original and cover songs, highlighting her songs from her three released albums.

Teen Event: Feeling Anxious? How to Find Your Passion and Do What You Love!
Thursday, May 26
4-5:15 p.m.
Ages 12-18
Teens, use your creativity to express your emotions! Rayne Lacko and Lesley Holmes, creators of Dream Up Now: The Teen Journal for Creative Self-discovery, will help you explore your interests and passions. Did you know that making art is a great way of relieving stress and decreasing anxiety and depression? This event will give you the opportunity to explore your interests and passions with some free-drawing activities and a quiz. Soothing, proven tools are offered to manage anxious feelings and shift your focus to self-acceptance and personal empowerment. Together, we’ll learn how to write and use affirmations.

How can you take action? Learn more at the San Mateo County Health Mental Health Month webpage.