U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – The VI Department of Health is recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month by highlighting its importance in every aspect of a person’s daily life and reaffirming the commitment to promoting mental health resources and services in the territory.
“Mental Health Month is a time to celebrate the importance of mental wellness and to recognize that mental health is just as vital as physical health,” said Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion. “Prioritizing mental health strengthens individuals, families, and communities and our work continues to build a Virgin Islands where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength — and where every resident has access to the support they need to thrive.”
In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the department’s Behavioral Health team is launching a robust schedule of events and services aimed at engaging Virgin Islanders while highlighting our youth, and vulnerable population. The division is enhancing its outreach by taking the “Zen Van” on the road to visit junior high and high school campuses territorywide, conducting outreach to homeless population and sponsoring community wellness events.
The Zen Van provides a calming mobile environment where individuals can access on-site mental health counseling and resources. The Behavioral Health team, in collaboration with community organizations such as Catholic Charities VI, will provide the homeless with meals, health screenings and information about linkage to care.
“Through this month’s activities, we are reminding the community that it’s okay to ask for help and that support is available,” said Deputy Commissioner for Behavioral Health Renan Steele. “Our goal is to reduce stigma, to promote open conversations, and expand access to support and treatment. We are committed to meeting people where they are.”
The team is also sponsoring the following community engagement events during the month of May:
On St. Croix
– 12 p.m., May 13, Zumba at Fort Christian, Christiansted
– 9 a.m., May 16, Information Table, Kmart, Sunny Isles
– 2 p.m., May 31, Mental Health Awareness Walk and Art Therapy. The walk will begin at Claude O. Markoe Elementary School and end at Buddhoe Park. The department is asking everyone to wear green in support of mental health.
On St. Thomas
– 5:30 p.m., May 14, Mental Health Awareness Walk starting at the Schneider Regional Medical Center.
– 5:30 p.m., May 17, Behavioral Health Panel, University of the Virgin Islands
Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase understanding of the importance of mental health in daily lives and to celebrate those on the path to recovery.
“I encourage everyone to take part, learn more about the services we offer, and make mental well-being a personal priority,” Commissioner Encarnacion said. “Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, stress, or trauma, it’s important to know that you are not alone, and that help is available.”
For more information about behavioral health services available through the VI Department of Health visit www.doh.vi.gov .
