The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health pulled up and showed out at the Liberal Arts campus on May 14, hosting its Mental Health Resource Fair in the A-Quad courtyard area starting at 11 a.m., with the event providing free haircuts and makeovers for students, games and activities, catered food and live music from KDAY’s 93.5 FM.
LACDM’s goal is to connect with LBCC students who suffer from mental health issues and provide them with resources available both on and off campus.
Staff members from LACDM handed out informational materials and spoke one-on-one with students about counseling, crisis support and other programs. Tables included brochures, cards, and other helpful information.
LACDM Public Service Worker, Taylor Smith, discussed the issues students face relating to mental health today.
“The stigma surrounding mental health, and the negative connotation associated with it can create some barriers to accessing this type of care,” said Smith.
As the event continued, students gathered near the registration table set up beside a taco truck, where workers were distributing free tacos and burritos.
Coordinator with the Mental Health Services (MHSCI), Valerie Williams, assisted students during the registration process, making it a smooth experience for everyone to sign in.
The Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health promotes wellness and well-being while sharing the vast array of resources and services provided by the nation’s largest behavioral health department. (Alejandro Diaz Lopez)
“I’ve discovered that DMH (Department of Mental Health) is rather departmental. You’ve got to go through this person to get approval for something, this other person needs to give you approval for; but I’m still able to go where I know youth are and help them where they need to be helped,” said Williams.
Games were abundant, including cornhole and pop-a-shot, along with free haircuts and glam makeovers provided by the Master Academy barber and cosmetology school.
Students enjoyed the atmosphere and hip-hop music courtesy of KDAY’s 93.5 FM, which could be heard throughout the entire quad area.
LBCC Nursing student, Raul Salazar, attended the event while he had a quick break in between classes.
“Going to school, I feel as though my mental health has decreased. Being isolated, being alone studying, it takes a toll. This event has helped me meet new people, see new things, and give me a restart for the day,” Salazar said.
Although the event was meant to be informal, the environment was exciting and welcoming.
LBCC students could be seen sitting with LACDM and LBCC staff members holding discussions, while others gathered resources available at various booths before returning to class.
By the end of the event, students were well fed and well informed with resources meant to help them with the necessary tools needed in their collegiate journeys.
If any students are suffering from a mental health emergency, they can contact the Department of Mental Health via phone (800-854-7771) for 24/7 crisis support and advice, or 988 for the suicide and crisis lifeline.
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