HERMISTON, Ore.-You Are Not Alone, a mental and behavioral health awareness event and honor walk is September 20 on the Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS) Campus.
“This event raises awareness for mental health by amplifying the voices of community members and highlighting local mental health services,” said Jessica Reker, MPH, RN, Director of Community Health and Outreach with GSHCS.
You Are Not Alone runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will include local mental health resources, educational activities, guest speakers, an impact wall, and an honor walk.
According to the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) for Morrow and Umatilla Counties, 21.2 percent of respondents are currently taking medication or receiving treatment for some type of mental health condition or emotional problem.
Community members are encouraged to honor a loved one or share personal stories and experiences of how mental or behavioral health has impacted their lives by submitting pictures, videos, quotes, or stories on the impact wall.
Between 2018 and 2020, there were 19.4 suicides reported per 100,000 population in the total service area primarily associated with Morrow and Umatilla Counties, according to the CHNA.
“You Are Not Alone is a much-needed opportunity to bring people together, foster connection, and remind us all that no one is alone in their struggles,” said Reker.
The honor walk will take place on the walking path on the front lawn of the GSHCS campus, and inspirational photos and messages will greet attendees along the way.
Community vendors will be set up at You Are Not Alone with educational materials and resources concerning mental and behavioral health, suicide prevention, domestic violence, and substance use education. All proceeds generated at the event will be donated to local mental health resources.
Local mental and behavioral health resources participating in You Are Not Alone
- Good Shepherd Start by Believing
- Umatilla Morrow Head Start
- Umatilla County Public Health
- COPES
- Community Counseling Solutions
- PFLAG
- Domestic Violence Services, Inc
- GOBHI Therapeutic Foster Care
- Stepping Stones Alliance
- Walk With Purpose, LLC
- Oregon Department of Human Services
- Good Shepherd Vange John Memorial Hospice
- Family Health Associates
- Greater Oregon Behavioral Health, Inc
- Al-Anon Family Groups
- Cason’s Place Grief Support for Children and Families of Eastern Oregon
- EOCCO
- Life’s Intention, LLC
“Together, we can break the stigma and build a stronger, more supportive community,” said Reker.
Anyone with questions about the event may call 541.667.3509 or email healthinfo@gshealth.org. More information about You Are Not Alone is also available online.
