The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health was preparing Friday to roll out a monthlong series of events after launching its annual “Take Action for Mental Health L.A. County” campaign.
The campaign includes nine large-scale events and more than 130 community-based activities scheduled throughout May, organized in partnership with dozens of local groups, according to organizers.
Officials said the effort is aimed at promoting mental health awareness, reducing stigma and connecting residents with resources and support services.
“Mental Health Awareness Month provides a vital opportunity for us to connect with communities across Los Angeles County and elevate the importance of mental health and wellbeing,” LACDMH Director Lisa Wong said in a statement.
The department said it is partnering with 84 community-based organizations to host free events that include wellness activities such as meditation, art and live music, along with access to mental health resources.
The department will host events at the following locations:
— May 3 at Magic Johnson Park, 905 E. El Segundo Blvd., Willowbrook;
— May 5 at Rio Hondo College, 3600 Workman Mill Road, Whittier;
— May 12 at Los Angeles Mission College, 13356 Eldridge Ave., Sylmar;
— May 12 at Long Beach City College, 4901 E. Carson St., Long Beach;
— May 13 at Los Angeles City College, 855 N. Vermont Ave., East Hollywood;
— May 14 at Antelope Valley College, 3041 W. Ave. K, Lancaster;
— May 14 at Santa Monica College, 1900 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica;
— May 20 at Compton College, 1111 E. Artesia Blvd., Compton; and
— May 28 at Pasadena City College, 1570 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.
“Through this year’s campaign, we are bringing accessible, culturally responsive wellness activities and resources directly into communities — from our kickoff event at Magic Johnson Park to events at local community colleges — to inspire hope, recovery and wellbeing, particularly among our transition-aged youth and young adults,” Wong said. “At its core, this campaign is about strengthening connections, reducing stigma, and empowering communities to prioritize their mental health every day.”
More information, including a full list of events, is available at www.takeactionla.com/.
While May is Mental Health Awareness Month, officials said the department promotes well-being and resilience year-round. LACDMH encouraged residents to use its help line at 800-854-7771 and the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.