Summary: May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reduce stigma and encourage open conversations about mental health. In Napa County the season’s transitions make that message especially relevant. This column reflects on those moments and highlights the importance of awareness, connection and access to support.
NAPA VALLEY, Calif. — May in Napa County often marks a period of transition. It is a season of graduations and celebrations as well as a time to honor the mothers and mother figures who shape people’s lives. For some, it also brings uncertainty about what comes next.
I remember walking across the stage during my high school graduation a few years ago, feeling both excited and unsure. That mix of emotions is common, which is part of why Mental Health Awareness Month resonates locally.
Mental Health Awareness Month, observed each May since 1949, offers a yearly reminder to talk more openly about mental health, reduce stigma and make support easier to find. What began as an initiative by Mental Health America has grown into a nationwide effort centered on education, connection and awareness.
In a season already filled with milestones and change, the month creates space to pause and ask yourself how you are really doing. Slowing down to reflect or acknowledge stress is not always easy, particularly during busy or uncertain times. Reaching out for support can feel difficult, but it is often an important first step.
Mental health awareness is not limited to any one group. It is something people experience across all ages and backgrounds. Knowledge about available resources can help prevent challenges from becoming more serious over time.
Therapy can provide a confidential, nonjudgmental space to process thoughts and develop tools for managing stress, mental health symptoms and life transitions. It is useful both during difficult moments and as a proactive way to build resilience and self-awareness.
Young adults ages 18 to 25 experience higher rates of mental illness than older adult groups, according to federal survey data. Access to support services can play a role in outcomes.
After the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline launched in July 2022, researchers identified 4,372 fewer suicides among people ages 15 to 34 than projected through the end of 2024, as reported by The New York Times and summarized by KFF Health News. The 988 line provides free 24/7 access to trained counselors. This research highlights the real and measurable impact that accessible mental health support can have on people’s lives. It reinforces the importance of continuing to share resources such as 988, ensuring that individuals know that these services exist. Having access to timely support can change the course of someone’s day and in some cases save a life.
In Napa County, Mentis and other organizations provide mental health services such as counseling, youth programs and resource referrals. Mentis offers bilingual, sliding-scale services for a range of age groups. Seeking support is a personal decision, but it is widely recognized as part of maintaining overall health. Mental health care is often discussed alongside physical health as a key component of well-being.
Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder to check in with others and stay informed about available resources. Small acts of connection such as reaching out or having a conversation can be meaningful.
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Fatima Pena is the community engagement specialist at Mentis.
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If you or someone you love is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
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If you or someone you love needs mental health or wellness support, please visit our Mentis Community and Youth Resource Database. Mentis is one of Napa’s oldest nonprofits and provides bilingual, affordable mental health services to people of every age and income level.
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If you are a veteran or someone who supports a veteran in crisis, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1, or text 838255 for 24/7, confidential support — no VA enrollment required.
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The views, opinions and data presented in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position or perspective of Napa Valley Features or its editorial team. Any content provided by our authors is their own and is not intended to malign any group, organization, company or individual.
