MEDIA CONTACT
Alycia Davis, (531) 249-8079,
alycia.davis@nebraska.gov
Lincoln – On Friday, October 20, the Lincoln Regional Center (LRC) hosted its Annual Walk for Mental Health Awareness. This year marks 14 years of LRC's walk uniting individuals with lived experiences together with care providers to advocate and share resources for people with mental health challenges. LRC strives to promote accurate information about mental health challenges, uphold individuals as people instead of a diagnosis, and promote mental healthcare, and resources for all Nebraskans.
“Our Annual Walk for Mental Health Awareness is a powerful opportunity to advocate for and support individuals who experience mental health challenges," said Jess Russell, Regional Hospital Administrator for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). “A diagnosis is not an identity and asking for help is a sign of strength. Healing takes time which is why it is vital to support our fellow Nebraskans to keep taking steps forward in their journeys of recovery."
“Everyone has bad days and it is OK to not be OK. Mental health is not a destination, it is an everyday journey of self-reflection and growth. Every Nebraskan deserves to feel supported and loved, even on their toughest days," said Tony Green, the Interim Director of the Division of Behavioral Health at DHHS. “If you or your loved one is having a bad day or needs support, I urge you to call, text, or chat 988 for access to free, confidential, and compassionate support and resources."
This year's theme was “Break Through" which symbolizes breaking through the stigma, obstacles, and barriers that could prevent a person from gaining increased levels of wellness and recovery. It is also symbolizing the celebration of breakthroughs that happen in our communities every day. These individual and collective breakthroughs help us reach new understandings in life and take steps to reach our full potential.
If you or a loved one need assistance, please reach out to:
- The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; call, text, or chat 988.
- Nebraska Family Helpline – Any question, any time. (888) 866-8660.
- Rural Response Hotline, (800) 464-0258.
- Your faith-based leader, healthcare professional, or student health center on campus.