Happy September! This month, we recognize two important observances in behavioral health: National Recovery Month and Suicide Prevention Month. National Recovery Month is an opportunity to celebrate recovery, reduce stigma in our community and participate in local events.  

While responsibility for suicide prevention work under the Behavioral Health Services Act is transitioning to San Mateo County Public Health, Policy and Planning, BHRS remains committed to suicide prevention by reducing stigma around seeking help and offering crisis response services, including ensuring residents can access timely crisis support. Last year, BHRS launched an outreach campaign to raise awareness of the Mobile Crisis Response Team and how to access it via the San Mateo County Crisis Line at (650) 579-0350. This month, we are relaunching the campaign to continue to raise awareness of what to do during a behavioral health crisis. 

Also in this issue, learn about a mental health training developed to support elected officials and mark your calendar for several events coming this fall, including this year’s Housing Hero Awards and the annual NAMI Walk! As usual, advancing health equity is a throughline in our work, as reflected in this month’s articles. 

Dr. Jei Africa