Events mark Mental Health month

The state Mental Health and Mental Retardation Division is sponsoring several events in Clark County this month in keeping with the observation of Mental Health Month.

The Southern Nevada Adult Mental Health Services and the Mojave Mental Health Services plan an "eggs benefit" May 31 in Las Vegas with the proceeds to go to local mental health advocacy groups. The brunch and live music will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 6161 West Charleston.

There will be an essay contest for Clark County middle and high school students on the subject of mental health. The winner will be announced May 31 and plaques will go to the top three winners of each level.

Nevada joined with other states in this year's theme "Break- ing Through The Stigma."

Division Administrator Carlos Brandenburg said the nation is still battling the shame and branding associated with seeking mental health care. It's time, Brandenburg said, to learn that alcohol, drug abuse or mental health disorders are diagnosable and treatable.

"Nearly one in two of us will experience a mental health or addictive disorder at some point in our lives," Brandenburg said. "We must all understand that seeking help for those disorders is as important as treating an ulcer or high blood pressure."

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