TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — May is Mental Health Awareness Month and organizations like Mental Health America and local officials are bringing new initiatives to Terre Haute.
Vigo County Commissioner Chris Switzer is encouraging residents to step outside and join his “Move for Mental Health” initiative.
“Every Monday, in the month of May, we are going to get out and walk”, Switzer said. “Either in a Vigo County Park or somewhere where we can just get together and have a conversation to raise awareness for mental health.”
Switzer said, here in Vigo County, many people struggle with both physical and mental health.
“We know we’re ranked in the bottom half of the state when it comes to health outcomes, so we’re trying to put those two things together”, Switzer said. “Working on your physical health and mental health together, in hopes of improving your lifestyle.”
Mental Health America has provided prevention programs, education, and housing in Vigo County for the last 75 years. Leaders of the organization, like Raye Rauckman, said taking care of basic necessities allows time and energy for mental health.
“When you’re living on the street you don’t have access to take a shower, you don’t know where your next meal is going to be, you don’t even know where you can use the bathroom”, Rauckman said. “Having a home offers you that opportunity to really focus on the other areas such as mental healthcare, physical healthcare, and working towards goals beyond just surviving every day.”
Rauckman said, during this month, Mental Health America wants everyone to know help is available.
“If you need help, ask for it”, Rauckman said. “If someone has a question or you need to know more about a place you can get services, we’re always willing to help. If you need advocacy to help, get those services, we’re willing to help.”
If you are interested in joining Commissioner Switzer for “Strides with Switzer”, the first walk is Monday, May 5th, at 6:00 p.m. at Dewey Point.
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