Maryland Joins Nationwide Effort to Raise Awareness for Mental Health in ‘Go Green’ Campaign

The Maryland Department of Health has joined forces with the Mental Health Association of Maryland to promote mental health awareness throughout May. The ‘Go Green’ initiative is aimed at raising awareness by lighting up green from May 13-19 across the country. This year, the theme for Maryland is “Mental Health is Health.”

State officials, including Deputy Secretary for Behavioral Health Alyssa Lord, stress the importance of providing access to care and fostering communities of understanding and support. The focus is on reducing stigma surrounding mental health and highlighting the resources available for those in need. Various landmarks in Maryland, along with government and nonprofit organizations, are participating in the initiative by wearing green and lighting up buildings.

Employees of the health department are also encouraged to wear green and join in on events throughout the month. The Suicide Prevention Office has planned a calendar of events alongside the ‘Go Green’ initiative to promote mental health awareness. Heidi Rochon, Chief Program Officer of Mental Health Association of Maryland, emphasizes the importance of protecting mental health and ensuring access to care for all residents of Maryland.

Those interested in joining in can sign up at mhamd.org/yes-to-green. By coming together and showing commitment to mental health, communities across Maryland can support each other’s wellbeing this May.