Photo submitted to the Times Observer From left are members of Beacon Light’s team in Warren: Sherry Thomas, Alexandria Shrefler, Cheyenna Thompson, Lacey Bjorkquist, Kelsey Irvine, Melissa Rexford and Ryan Munksgard.

As May marks Mental Health Awareness Month nationwide, Beacon Light Behavioral Health System and Beacon Light Adult Residential Services – affiliates of Journey Health System – are taking the opportunity to shine a spotlight on the importance of mental health and the power of healing.

“Mental health affects everyone – regardless of age, background, or circumstance,” said Jennifer Gesing, executive director of Beacon Light Behavioral Health System. “This month is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of having good mental health and the importance of seeking help.”

According to the Mental Health Association, nearly 60 million adults, 23% of the U.S. population, experienced a mental illness in the past year. The impact is widespread, touching families, friends, coworkers, and neighbors.

For children and adolescents (17 and under), Beacon Light offers: Outpatient Clinic, Intensive Behavioral Health Services, Multi-Systematic Therapy, Family Based Mental Health, Blended Case Management, Student Assistance Program, Residential Treatment Facility, STRIDE (Specialized Therapeutic Residence for Intellectual and Developmental Empowerment), Youngsville Specialized Residential Treatment Program, Short Term Adolescent Recovery, GIRLS (Girls in Recovery Learning Strengths), Education Program.

For adults, services include:, Outpatient Clinics (in Warren and soon in Bradford), Common Ground Decision Support Center, Site-Based Psychiatric Rehabilitation, Mobile Medication Management, Peer Support, Blended Case Management, Community Stabilization and Reintegration Unit (CSRU), Ramsbottom Center ICF/IDD Program, Adult Waiver Homes, Community Residential Rehabilitation (CRR).

“We wish to thank our amazing employees who guide individuals during their most challenging moments, facilitate healing, growth, and independence,” said Jim Wiseman, executive director of Beacon Light Adult Residential Services. “We welcome others to join our mental health care team–it’s a profound and rewarding career.”

While May is an official observance month, Beacon Light emphasizes that mental health awareness is not confined to a calendar date.

“We believe that every day, we all have a role to play in reducing stigma and promoting well-being,” said Gesing. “There is always hope, and there is always help.”