Mental Health Task Force Encourages People to “Take 5” for Themselves

The Mental Health Task Force of Northwest Florida has kicked off the second quarter of a yearlong awareness campaign, continuing the Task Force’s goal to raise awareness about mental health while encouraging community support for each other.

The Mental Health Task Force has released additional free, shareable materials for the second quarter, which focuses on taking care of yourself. The “Take 5” campaign kicks off Friday, April 1 and reminds people to take 5 minutes to themselves when they need it. This could be taking a walk, stepping away from your computer, listening to your favorite song, or simply taking slow, deep breaths – whatever lightens your mood.

The “Take 5” campaign follows the Task Force’s first quarter “Ask 5” campaign, which reminded people to take a moment to ask 5 people if they’re ok.

“After focusing the first quarter of the year on taking care of others and checking in to see if they’re ok, I’m excited to highlight the importance of self-care,” said State Rep. Michelle Salzman, who has spearheaded the Mental Health Task Force. “Self-care is vital to a person’s mental health and well-being, and we too often put ourselves last while focusing on our families, friends, careers, and the many demands of our everyday lives. We hope everyone will share this message and encourage each other to ‘Take 5’ when you need it.”

The Mental Health Task Force met on Friday, March 31, continuing the community collaboration that has sparked important mental health conversations with local leaders representing healthcare, government and elected officials, faith-based and community organizations, nonprofits, and more.

The new social media materials for the second quarter are available on the Mental Health Task Force of Northwest Florida’s website. The materials are free and available to anyone, but organizations and individuals are also encouraged to take the mental health pledge to action to commit to making a positive impact on the mental health and wellness of your workplace.

Members of the network who sign the pledge are asked to actively promote mental health and wellness in addition to encouraging their coworkers and employees to Pledge 5, Ask 5, Take 5, and Share 5 in an effort to increase awareness of mental health resources and highlight the need for mental well-being.

The Mental Health Task Force of Northwest Florida will be releasing additional materials for each quarter of 2022, each with a different theme related to mental health awareness and advocacy.

About the Mental Health Task Force of Northwest Florida

The goal of the Mental Health Task Force of Northwest Florida is to act as a positive catalyst influencing the working and communal culture by the promotion of wellness to include optimal mental wellbeing for the workforce in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties.

Our Mission

Provide mental health support and resources to all Northwest Florida citizens.

Learn More

To learn more about the Mental Health Task Force of Northwest Florida, visit mentalhealthtaskforce.org.