This May, Sacramento County is making a SPLASH to raise awareness about mental health! In a powerful show of leadership, Sacramento County Board of Supervisors Patrick Kennedy and Pat Hume participated in the University of South Carolina’s #SpeakYouMIND Ice Bucket Challenge for Mental Health Awareness, demonstrating that addressing mental health should be seen as strong, courageous, and community-driven. Watch their video on Instagram.
Mental illness impacts every ethnic, racial, economic, religious and age group. Roughly one in every five adults will experience a diagnosable mental health condition during their lifetime, yet many never seek the support they need due to stigma, discrimination or shame. In Sacramento County we believe that has to change. If you had a general health issue, you’d seek help and it should be the same for mental/behavioral health.
Sacramento County is proud to offer a range of behavioral health services that address both mental health and substance use needs. People have different experiences, needs and paths to recovery, and our services reflect that. Whether it’s prevention, treatment or ongoing support, we’re committed to helping individuals access the care that fits their unique journey.
To determine treatment needs and level of care, Sacramento County offers confidential brief screenings through the Behavioral Health Services-Screening and Coordination (BHS-SAC) Team—no appointment necessary. Clinical staff are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to help residents connect with the appropriate provider. Indviduals should call 916-875-1055 to beginning screening. For a behavioral health crisis, call 988.
Additionally, the County’s Stop Stigma Sacramento campaign continues to challenge misconceptions and build understanding through education and community dialogue. The campaign highlights real voices and real stories, proving that recovery is possible and support makes a difference. Learn more at stopstigmasacramento.org.
Mental health is health. With the right support, individuals can, and do, recover and thrive.
This month, and every month, let’s work together to wash away the stigma. For more information on the County’s Department of Health Services.