NEW ORLEANS — The New Orleans Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit (MCIU), a program of the New Orleans Health Department, in collaboration with Resources for Human Development (RHD), announces the launch of a citywide mental health awareness campaign throughout May in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month.
The campaign, “Sack Stigma, Tackle Thoughts, Punt Perceptions, Recover the Fumble, Finish Strong, Dominate the Game,” leverages the powerful imagery of American football to emphasize the importance of mental health awareness and community support.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health, and ensuring that residents experiencing a crisis receive the right care at the right time remains a top priority for us,” said Dr. Jennifer Avegno, director of the New Orleans Health Department. “We are proud of what the New Orleans Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit (MCIU) team has accomplished this past year, made possible through our partnership with RHD. However, we can’t do it alone. We encourage all residents to team up with us in raising awareness about mental health and making sure our community knows that help is always available.”
“Mental health is one illness that does not discriminate when it comes to ‘penalties’ or who is affected. Everyone in our community has been impacted by mental illness in some way,” said Tyesha Davis-Rhodes, LCSW, program director of the New Orleans Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit. “Just like in football, we need the entire team to play and win the game. Mental wellness is about valuing the small gains, yard by yard, to achieve the big win.”
As a team of trained mental health professionals responding to crisis situations across New Orleans, the MCIU will deliver age-appropriate activities and educational content throughout May, ensuring community members have access to critical mental health resources and support.
The initiative calls on all residents, organizations, businesses, and stakeholders to “TEAM UP” with MCIU in the fight to break down stigma and create a culture of support for mental health challenges.
Throughout the month of May, New Orleans residents are invited to attend community events, educational workshops, and resource fairs focused on mental health awareness and available services. Join us for our kick-off outreach event on Sunday, May 4, at the First Mount Calvary Ministries Church at 2919 6th St, New Orleans, LA 70115. The event will be open to the public starting at 11 am. Details of specific events will be announced via MCIU’s social media platforms and website.
For more information about the “TEAM UP” initiative or to learn how you can get involved, please contact:
Tyesha Davis-Rhodes, LCSW Program Director Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit Resources for Human Development 504-422-2721, Tyesha.Davis@rhd.org
About the New Orleans Health Department (NOHD): The New Orleans Health Department’s mission is to promote, protect, and improve the health of all in our community through equitable policies, programs, and partnerships.
About Resources for Human Development (RHD): Resources for Human Development is a national human services nonprofit with the mission to support people of all abilities through effective, innovative, and person-centered programs. The New Orleans Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit is one of RHD’s programs dedicated to providing immediate, compassionate care to those experiencing mental or behavioral health crises within the New Orleans area.
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