Shasta County, California — Shasta County health officials are helping men address their mental health needs during Men’s Health Month.
Local men started the Captain Awesome campaign to provide mental health support to other men through unique tips and tools. Sydney Stinger, community education specialist for the Shasta County Health and Human Services Agency, said the campaign was developed in response to the high suicide rates in the area, especially among men.
“In Shasta County right now, men make up about 49 percent of the population, but they account for about 80 percent of all suicide deaths, which is significant,” Stinger said.
The campaign is sponsored by the county and local partners and includes men from various local organizations, including the tribal community, the Shasta County Health and Human Services Department and the Shasta County Probation Department.
Through Captain Awesome, locals can learn about mental health resources, including crisis support.
Additionally, a men’s advisory group will provide feedback on campaign materials and messaging to ensure it resonates with participants.
Stinger said the initiatives are designed to reduce long-standing stigmas surrounding men’s mental health.
“This is really important because the more we talk about this issue, the more people will feel comfortable reaching out for help,” Stinger said.
Stinger said the team needs more men to contribute and stressed that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
For more information on Captain Awesome, click here.
