Dallas Celebrates Mental Health Awareness Month with Harmony CDC: Combating Stigma and Promoting Support

The City of Dallas has partnered with Harmony Community Development Corporation (CDC) to raise awareness about mental health issues and promote a supportive environment. On May 8, 2024, the city celebrated the start of Mental Health Awareness month by holding a proclamation reading. Council Member Zarin Gracey, District 3, read the proclamation and emphasized the importance of addressing mental health openly to create well-being, resilience, and inclusivity.

Leaders from Harmony CDC shared personal stories to reduce stigma around mental health and encourage residents to seek available support and services. The ceremony included special remarks from city officials, community leaders, and a poetry performance that emphasized the importance of fostering a compassionate and supportive environment for all individuals.

Mark Porter, Director of Harmony CDC, highlighted the need for utilizing all resources to cultivate a mentally healthy community. The organization’s mission is to create a caring environment where every individual’s mental health is valued. They address issues like violence and poverty within the community by offering free counseling services funded by a grant from the City of Dallas and providing tele-appointments for remote support.

A study by CertaPet revealed that uninsured individuals face challenges in accessing mental health treatment. Harmony CDC provides these individuals with free counseling services that can be accessed through their website along with information on how they can connect with Harmony CDC for mental health resources.