Loma Linda University Behavioral Health hosted its 6th annual Stand Up to Stigma 5k event on Sunday, May 19, 2024, drawing over 600 participants. By participating in the event, staff, students, and community members of all ages showed their support for mental health services.   

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and events like the 5k help raise awareness and challenge stigmas surrounding mental health issues. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental illness. 

Mental health conditions should be treated with the same care and support as other health concerns within the community, health experts say.

The family-friendly walk/run event highlighted the importance of addressing mental health within the community. Edward Field, MBA, vice president and administrator of the Behavioral Medicine Center, emphasized the importance of community involvement in destigmatizing mental health care. "Recognizing the need for mental healthcare is just as vital as recognizing any other healthcare need ... Together, we can break down the barriers to seeking help," he said. 

Talking about mental health isn’t always easy, but it’s important. If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health condition, the Behavioral Medicine Center will work with you to begin the healing process while restoring hope for the future. 

The original article was published on the Loma Linda University Health website.