May is Mental Health Awareness Month. More than 44 million people across the country experience mental health conditions every year. They range from depression to post-traumatic stress, substance abuse and various others. In recent years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the numbers have notably increased. Mental health disorders are treatable. This month, Texans are encouraged to take charge of their mental health and seek assistance, according to the text from a proclamation read by Plainview Mayor Charles Starnes to a gathered Central Plains Center crew on Friday. During a brief presentation at the CPC office, Starnes officially proclaimed this month to be Mental Health Awareness Month in Plainview. The CPC covers nine counties including: Bailey, Parmer, Lamb, Castro, Swisher, Hale, Floyd, Briscoe and Motley.

Ellysa Harris/Plainview Herald