OKEECHOBEE – May is Mental Health Awareness Month in Okeechobee County.

During their May 14 meeting, Okeechobee County Commissioner Terry Burroughs presented proclamations to Leah Suarez of Our Village Okeechobee and Gregory Jackson of New Horizons.

Burroughs thanked Suarez and Jackson for their help in establishing a mental health court.

“When we first started mental health court, it was very difficult to get it started,” said Burroughs. “They continue to be very helpful in mental health court, and also making sure the people in jail get the right treatment.”

“We see some of the challenges of the extreme cases of mental illness and the effect it has on the families,” said Suarez.

Jackson said New Horizons strives to bring resources to Okeechobee County to address mental health issues.

The proclamation states: “Mental health is essential to the overall health and well-being of every county resident, and Okeechobee County is committed to ensuring that all residents have access to the support and resources necessary to live full and productive lives.

 “Prevention is an effective way to reduce the burden of mental health conditions, and there is strong evidence that early identification and intervention improve outcomes; and WHEREAS stigma remains a barrier to mental health care in our community; however, public awareness and training in evidence-based prevention models can empower individuals to seek treatment and gain access to the help they need.

“Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed each May since 1949 and Children’s Mental Health Day is observed on May 7, 2026, to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and to celebrate the resilience of individuals and communities working to overcome mental health challenges.

“The 2026 theme, “More Good Days…Together” encourages us to reflect on the unique meaning of mental wellness, highlighting that while the path to recovery is individual, no one should have to walk it alone.

“Okeechobee County and our community partners continue to make strides in reducing stigma, expanding crisis response services, and fostering collaboration between families, schools, and healthcare providers to create a culture of understanding and resilience.

“Every person in this community has a role to play in promoting mental wellness and creating environments where mental health is valued, protected, and prioritized.”