Winona, Minn – As we move into summer, it marks the official end of Mental Health Awareness Month—an important time when individuals, organizations, and communities come together to shine a light on mental health and well-being. At our agency, we proudly participated in this national movement, dedicating time and resources to education, engagement, and support around mental health. But as May turns to June, one thing remains clear: for us, mental health is not a one-month commitment. It’s something we focus on every day, every month, all year long.
Mental health is the foundation for our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It influences how we think, feel, and act—and how we handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. In our line of work, we see firsthand how critical it is to nurture and protect mental health, not just for those we serve, but also for ourselves as professionals. At our agency, we believe in building a culture where mental wellness is part of the everyday conversation. That means creating a safe and supportive environment where it’s okay to talk about stress, seek help, and take time to recharge. It means training our teams not just to recognize signs of mental health challenges in others, but also to be mindful of their own well-being. And it means advocating for policies and practices that support mental health at every level of our organization. We also recognize that mental health doesn’t look the same for everyone. Our commitment includes honoring diversity in mental health experiences and ensuring our approaches are inclusive, respectful, and responsive to the needs of every individual we serve and work alongside.
As we move forward, let’s carry the momentum of Mental Health Awareness Month with us. Let’s continue to check in on one another, share resources, and create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and supported. Let’s keep talking about mental health—not just when it’s popular or timely, but as a regular, vital part of how we live and work. Because when we prioritize mental health every day, we’re not just fostering a healthier workplace—we’re creating a more compassionate, resilient, and connected community. Thank you to everyone who participated in May’s activities and who continues to advocate for mental wellness in their own way. Your efforts make a difference, every single day
Sincerely,
Erik Sievers, MBA, MSW, LICSW
Executive Director
