Recent editions of The Times Leader have featured a number of articles calling attention to the fact that May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

Proclamations have been made, students have heard presentations and activities, such as special walks, have been held with public participation encouraged. There is good reason to bring the subject into the spotlight and to work toward eliminating the stigma that surrounds concerns about mental health.

Access to mental health care is limited in the local area, and some people aren’t getting the help they so desperately need.

“We had five suicides in 13 days in the month of March just in Belmont County. All but one were under the age of 24, and all were gunshot wounds to the head. And that really makes us question, what is going on? What are we missing? And how do we help these people?” Belmont County Coroner Amanda Fisher said earlier this month.

She added that in October, ground was broken at the future site of a behavioral health urgent care center that will serve Belmont, Harrison and Monroe counties. The future facility will be a joint venture with Coleman Health Services, the Mental Health and Recovery Board of Belmont, Harrison and Monroe Counties, and the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.

Fisher said she believes when this new facility is complete, it will be able to fill the void in the community.

“Honestly, from my perspective, it could not come soon enough,” she said.

We agree. But, in the meantime, what can be done?

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis — or if you suspect that they are — don’t just wait and hope it will pass. If you believe there is risk of physical harm to anyone, call 911 or go to an emergency room. If thoughts of suicide are involved, call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. You can also contact your health care provider or a mental health professional.