Of the many things we can gleam from a world with the pandemic in our rear-view mirror, perhaps what is at the top of most lists is the necessity of mental health care.

Since 2022, the World Health Organization reports, there has been a 25% increase in anxiety and depression globally. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in the vein of championing our wellness care, Nogales High School students in La Puente recently hosted a health and wellness fair. I laced up my HOKA sneakers and took a stroll to my alma mater. 

 This expo brought together students and community, as well as the American Red Cross, American Lung Association, L.A. County Department of Mental Health and Pet Partners. While I was met with the expected workshops on healthy eating choices, meditating and mindfulness, what I didn’t quite expect was the emphasis on safety. There were Heimlich maneuver and choking prevention demonstrations, Narcan workshops (with giveaways) and proper gun storage demonstrations. 

Overall, I walked away from the event having burned about 100 calories (thanks, Zumba) and with a stark reminder of the current world that exists, post pandemic-pandemonium. Additionally, I have a renewed vision for all that it means to be well, and that includes being safe. Physical safety is simply one aspect. Guarding our hearts and minds is just as essential. 

Namaste.