Cape Girardeau Community Counseling Center promotes mental health awareness through “Get Your Green On” campaign

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — The Community Counseling Center is reminding others of the importance of mental health with its annual “Get Your Green On” campaign through the month of May.

“Green is the color that’s been chosen by mental health professionals to represent Mental Health Awareness Month,” said Michelle Ramsey, Executive Director of the Community Counseling Center. “It makes a huge impact.”

Ramsey talks about the campaign’s mission to raise awareness about mental health issues that impact people across the state. “One in four Missouri residents experiences a mental health issue each year. Among children, it’s one in six,” she said. “When you hear those statistics and think about how that could impact the people around you, it becomes real.”

The campaign encourages community members to wear green on Fridays throughout May and share photos on social media to help speard the word far and wide. “It helps people take a moment to think about what mental health means and how it affects them personally,” Ramsey said.

The Community Counseling Center is also promoting green light bulbs, yard signs, and banners for individuals and businesses to display. “There are so many creative ways to go green,” Ramsey said. “Whether it’s lighting, signage, or clothing, it all helps spread the word.”

By shining a light on the topic and participating, the CCC hopes to spark conversations and support individuals dealing with mental health challenges.

“We just want people to be more aware,” Ramsey said. “It’s not only about recognizing the signs in yourself but being a support to others who may be struggling.”

The campaign will continue throughout May, with events and promotions targeted at bringing the Cape Girardeau community together and being there for one another.