Published: May 1, 2026
WE ALL HAVE MENTAL HEALTH
This May, in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, our YMCA is encouraging individuals and families to prioritize mental well-being for themselves and for their communities.
The YMCA believes that mental health is health. It influences how people think, feel, and act - and it’s something that everyone has. This fuels the Y’s commitment to supporting mental wellness through programs, relationships, and resources that help people thrive. “Whether it’s a teen building confidence at summer camp, a parent finding connection in a fitness class, or a new member accessing support services, the Y is here to uplift the whole person,” said Pam Heaton, Healthy Living Manager. “We call this community care, and it’s at the heart of everything we do.”
What Community Care Looks Like at the Y:
• Encouraging positive self-care and emotional resilience
• Creating safe spaces for open, empathetic conversations
• Modeling healthy coping strategies and emotional regulation
• Connecting individuals to trusted mental health resources
• Responding with compassion in moments of crisis
• Embedding informal mental health support into everyday programs
The Y’s approach is non-clinical but deeply impactful, fostering a culture where everyone feels seen, supported, and empowered. Click HERE to visit our Mental Health Resource page on our website.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Help:
Support is always available. Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit 988lifeline.org for free, confidential support 24/7.