The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a proclamation Tuesday designating May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month.
- Commissioner Carolyn Ketchel presented the proclamation, emphasizing that mental health is “an essential part of overall wellbeing” that impacts individuals, families and communities across the county.
The proclamation notes that one in five American adults experiences a mental health condition annually, yet stigma continues to prevent many from seeking help.
“Early intervention and access to quality care are crucial for managing mental health conditions and improving quality of life,” Ketchel said before moving to approve the proclamation, which passed with unanimous support.
Bonnie Barlow, President/Chief Executive Officer at Bridgeway Center, thanked commissioners for their continued support of mental health services in the county.
- “Bridgeway Center would not be in existence without your support,” Barlow said. “That is our mission, that’s why we exist, is to work with you and all municipalities to serve the citizens of Okaloosa County.”
Barlow invited commissioners and the public to attend a May 16 celebration at Liza Jackson Park, organized in partnership with the City of Fort Walton Beach, to raise awareness about mental health resources.
“We like to say there is no health without mental health,” Barlow said. “Bridgeway is a place of healing, hope and help.”
The proclamation encourages all county residents to educate themselves about mental health conditions and available resources, challenge stigma through respectful conversations, seek help when needed, and support organizations providing mental health services.
