First Ever "Pink Heart Day" in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Today, September 10th 2018 marked a very special day in the greater Grand Rapids, Michigan area.  Our community recognized mental health and brought awareness on a subject traditionally not discussed outside of small circles. “I Understand” and Biggby Coffee hosted the “Pink Heart Day” event at Rosa Parks Circle in Downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan.  This event marks a milestone in the behavioral health field for West Michigan residents.  In 2014, Vonnie Woodrick who lost her husband to depression founded “I Understand” with a mission to erase the stigma and open a wider dialogue in hopes to reduce suicide, which takes 44,000 plus people in America each year.

It was the start of what I hope continues to be a sustainable event bringing more awareness of this important challenge so many face.  This day opens more discussion on a variety of behavioral health concerns our society is facing right now.  With the power of these types of events and more social acceptance of the importance of discussing our mental health and over all well-being we will become a stronger society.  Each day we are bombarded with social media posts, pictures and info graphics about physical wellness, healthy eating habits and efficient exercise routines which are all by in large amazing.  Ask yourself this question: How many posts do you receive about mental health or mental well-being?  How many tips or tricks are on your feed on how to work through a loss or betrayal? Ever see a before and after photo of someone who worked through a difficult time in life with a therapist?

We should celebrate the courage it takes to do that hard work as well.  I think we all know the answer and hope one day soon we will be able to embrace mental health accomplishments as much as we do a successful diet. 

The time to start is now. #letstalkaboutit

-Rachel