The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (LACDMH) hosted its annual Juneteenth Celebration of Wellness at Earvin “Magic” Johnson Park in South L.A on June 29. The free event hosted 1,796 attendees, 61 resource vendors, and many featured wellness activities, food, and fun for all.
“LACDMH is proud to partner with communities throughout Los Angeles County to break down barriers to mental health care and wellbeing,” said LACDMH Director Dr. Lisa H. Wong. “Events such as these bring people together from all communities for food, fun, and wellness. Together, we can Take Action to improve the mental health and wellbeing of all residents.”
The Juneteenth Celebration of Wellness was a free event. Participants received wellness screenings for blood pressure and diabetes, as well as vaccinations. Participants enjoyed food from an array of food trucks, music by KJLH radio, dancing, meditation, face painting and an obstacle course for kids. Participants also received many free giveaway items and T-shirts.
“The Department of Mental Health’s Juneteenth Celebration of Wellness is more than just a celebration of an important moment in our nation’s history — it’s about acknowledging the contributions of Black people and supporting greater health and wellbeing in Black communities,” said Dr. Darlesh K. Horn, Chief for Stakeholder and Community Engagement for LACDMH. “Communities of color may not be aware of the mental health care resources available to them, and they are also less likely to seek these services. Wellness events are critical in promoting the message that support and services are available to achieve wellness for their mind, body and spirit, and they can reach out to the Department if and when they need help.”
The Juneteenth Celebration of Wellness is part of LACDMH’s Take Action for Mental Health campaign to encourage individuals to “Take action for Mental Health for Yourself, for Your Circle, and for Your Community”.
“LACDMH is committed to uplifting residents and increasing awareness, so we can reduce mental health stigma,” said Dr. Robert Byrd, LACDMH Deputy Director of Prevention Services. “There is no wrong door when it comes to seeking help.”
The 2021 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration report, “Racial/Ethnic Differences in Mental Health Service Use among Adults,” found that communities of color utilize mental health care resources at a much smaller rate than their white counterparts.
LACDMH encourages County residents in every community to utilize the resources available through the Department and its partners, including the 24/7 Help Line at (800) 854-7771, 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, iPrevail digital wellness platform, our walk-in clinics and peer resource centers, and our partnerships with many L.A. County agencies and organizations.
To learn more about these resources, visit dmh.lacounty.gov.
