On behalf of Hope’s Leadership Team and the DEI Committee, Hope Services recognizes May as both Mental Health Awareness Month and Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month!

Mental Health Awareness month has been recognized since 1949 and at Hope Services, we plan to bring awareness to mental health issues and reduce the stigma associated with mental or behavioral health issues.

One in five Americans will experience a mental health issue each year and one in five children, either currently or at some point during their life, have had a seriously debilitating illness. Part of addressing issues around mental health is practicing self-care and would like to share a few resources to help individuals implement regular self-care practices for health and wellness. 

Take a look at The Employer’s Essential Mental Health Toolkit as well as ways to start your own “Mindful Mondays”.

The DEI Committee would also like to share a bit more about the topic of  intersectionality through the video, “WHAT is Intersectionality and WHY is it important when talking about mental health?”

Mental Health Awareness Month is often symbolized by the color lime green and folks are encouraged to wear lime green throughout the month through an awareness ribbon or other creative ways.

In addition to Mental Health Awareness, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (AAPIHM)! This year’s theme is “Advancing Leaders Through Opportunity.”

AAPIHM celebrates the unique cultures, histories, and experiences of AAPI individuals. The month also acknowledges and appreciates the contributions and achievements of this community.

To learn more, please view The History of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and can learn more through discussing the APA2022 factsheet.pdf  created by UCSF.

You can also select one of the many virtual tours offered through the Asian Art Museum or learn about pivotal individuals such as Amanda Nguyen (civil rights activist, Time Woman of the Year, and founder of Rise) and Ai-jen Poo (domestic workers organizer) by visiting their Instagram pages.

Join us in celebrating these two important observances and in promoting greater awareness through education and standing for inclusion and acceptance.

To learn more about Hope Services’ DEI initiatives, please visit www.hopeservices.org/dei