May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an annual observance established by Mental Health America in 1949 to emphasize the importance of mental well-being. It was created as a way to educate the public about mental health, raise awareness surrounding research and treatments, and reduce the stigma that can be associated with mental illness.
Because of misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental health, people often suffer in silence and don’t seek treatment for their conditions. Mental health awareness is a crucial initiative to improve understanding of mental health conditions and increase access to health care for those who need it.
Recognition and education are important ways to reduce the stigma associated with mental health. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness in a given year. Mental Health Awareness Month creates a time and space to start a conversation. Talking openly about mental health can reduce the misconceptions and can encourage those who are suffering to seek help and find a support network.
Do you or someone you know need immediate help? Call or text 988 for free, confidential support. The 988 Lifeline offers judgement-free help from people who care and know how to listen. Support is always just one call or text away.
Mental Health Matters for First Responders program
Here in northern Arizona, something special is happening in 2026. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH), the NAH Office of Philanthropy and title sponsor Health First Foundation are partnering with local organizations and businesses to host a series of Mental Health Matters events, as well as a special fundraiser in support of mental health resources for our local first responders.
Throughout May, local businesses are donating a portion of their proceeds to NAH’s Mental Health Matters for First Responders program, which supports NAH’s Guardian Air Transport and Guardian Medical Transport first responders in receiving critical mental health support. The program, which launched in 2023, provides confidential counseling, crisis debriefing, and other resources to help these community heroes process the trauma they experience daily on the job and maintain their own well-being.
Shop local and support first responder mental health
Throughout May, local businesses are donating a portion of their proceeds to NAH’s Mental Health Matters for First Responders program. Several local businesses are selling our Mental Health Matters T-shirts, with 100% of proceeds supporting the program.
- Allure AZ Med Spa: Offering 15% off the Angela Joy Facial throughout the month (originally the Luxe Facial, renamed in loving memory of Angela Joy Moody). This 60-minute treatment is available for $148, with a portion of the proceeds donated to NAH’s Mental Health Matters for First Responders program.
- Brightside Bookshop: Donating 20% of proceeds from all journals and mental health books purchased throughout the month.
- Mountain Sports Flagstaff: Selling Mental Health Matters t-shirts throughout the month.
- Pay ‘N Take Beer and Wine Bar: Featuring 988 Beer as its Community Tap. May is also a time of remembrance for Scott Miller, the former owner of Pay ‘N Take. In his honor, $1 from every Community Tap pour will be donated.
- Rainbow’s End: Selling Mental Health Matters t-shirts throughout the month.
- Shift Kitchen & Bar: For every 988 Mocktail sold, $1 will be donated.
Upcoming community events
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, there will be a series of Mental Health Matters events, starting April 28 and running through the month of May. Some of the events are as follows:
Friday, May 1:
- NAU Giving Day celebration
- Time: 5 p.m.
- Location: Mother Road Brewing, 7 S. Mikes Pike, Flagstaff
- Description: NAU is hosting a free NAU Giving Day celebration to honor the incredible impact of the Lumberjack community. The event takes place alongside Flagstaff’s First Friday Art Walk and Community Event, where NAH will host a table to share information about Mental Health Awareness Month and sell Mental Health Matters t-shirts.
Tuesday, May 5:
- Native Americans for Community Action (NACA) Wellness Center open house
- Time: 8 a.m. – noon
- Location: NACA Wellness Center, 1500 E. Cedar Ave., Ste. 52, Flagstaff
- Description: The Native Americans for Community Action (NACA) Behavioral Health Center prioritizes mental health for the Flagstaff community by offering counseling that honors customs, culture and beliefs. This event is free and open to the public.
Wednesday, May 6:
- NAH’s Coffee, Tea & Us: How to spot a friend in trouble
- Time: 12 – 12:30 p.m.
- Location: Virtual event hosted by NAH
- Description: Learn to spot the signs of a friend in distress and how to start a crucial conversation about mental health. Join NAH’s Behavioral Health team for a session on identifying when someone is in need and how to offer support. This event is free and open to the public.
Saturday, May 9:
- Wellness Walk with NAH
- Time: 9 – 11 a.m.
- Location: Buffalo Park, 2400 N. Gemini Dr., Flagstaff
- Description: Join NAH for a Wellness Walk designed to foster connection with the environment and others. Simple social interactions and observing wildlife can enhance overall mental well-being. This event is free and open to the public.
Tuesday, May 12:
- Mental Health Awareness Month Proclamation
- Time: 3 p.m.
- Location: Flagstaff City Hall, 211 W. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff
- Description: The Flagstaff City Council will issue a formal proclamation declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This public announcement recognizes the resilience of those living with mental health conditions and honors the dedication of professionals and loved ones supporting them. This event is free and open to the public.
NAH is grateful for the strength and compassion that define our community. Mental health isn’t something you fix once and forget about. It’s ongoing work, just like physical health, and it needs daily attention and care. Whether you are just starting that journey or looking for continued support, NAH offers comprehensive Behavioral Health and Psychiatry services for our community members.
The progress we make in mental health is only possible because of the compassion and trust we share in our communities. Thank you to our community partners who have joined us in this effort. We are grateful to be your partner in building a healthier, more connected community.
If you are interested in submitting a question for Northern Arizona Healthcare to answer in this column, please submit it to [email protected].