In May, the Maryland Department of Health is joining hands with the Mental Health Association of Maryland to promote the ‘Go Green’ campaign. This initiative aims to raise awareness about mental health by encouraging individuals and businesses to light up their surroundings in green from May 13-19. The campaign is taking place nationwide, with the goal of highlighting the importance of mental health.
This year, the Mental Health Association of Maryland has partnered with the department’s Office of Suicide Prevention to expand participation in Maryland under the theme “Mental Health is Health.” Deputy Secretary for Behavioral Health Alyssa Lord emphasized the significance of mental health in overall wellbeing and the need for access to care and support in building communities of understanding.
Residents and businesses in Maryland are encouraged to wear green, light up buildings in green, and share their participation on social media. Buildings like Oriole Park at Camden Yards, M&T Bank Stadium, Merriweather Post Pavilion, as well as various government and nonprofit organizations, are participating in this initiative. The Maryland Department of Health is also organizing events and activities throughout the month to raise awareness and support mental health.
Chief Program Officer Heidi Rochon from the Mental Health Association of Maryland stressed the importance of protecting mental health and ensuring equal access to care for all Marylanders. Communities across the state are urged to come together and show their commitment to mental health by lighting their skyline in green. Those interested in participating can sign up at mhamd.org/yes-to-green.