Mental Health: Time for Action, Says Virginia Beach Expert
Virginia Beach – As Mental Health Awareness Month continues, a local expert is urging residents to move beyond recognition and actively address the growing need for mental health support. Kurt Hooks, of the Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center, argues in a guest column that the time for silence is over; action is urgently required to ignite meaningful change.
Hooks’ column, published [Assume publication source exists, e.g., 'in the Virginia Pilot'], highlights the persistent stigma surrounding mental health issues and its detrimental impact on individuals and communities. He stresses that Mental Health Awareness Month isn’t merely about acknowledging the problem but about fostering open conversations, increasing access to resources, and dismantling barriers to care.
The column details the increasing demand for mental health services, particularly in the wake of recent global events and ongoing societal challenges. Hooks emphasizes the importance of early intervention and preventative measures, pointing to the potential for positive outcomes when individuals receive timely support. He advocates for increased funding for mental health programs, improved training for healthcare professionals, and greater public awareness campaigns.
Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center, where Hooks is based, has been a long-standing provider of mental health services in the region, offering a range of programs including [Assume programs exist, e.g., 'outpatient therapy, inpatient care, and crisis intervention']. Hooks’ call to action aligns with the center’s commitment to promoting mental wellness and providing compassionate care to those in need. The piece concludes with a message of hope, encouraging readers to seek help if they are struggling and to support initiatives that prioritize mental health.
The full guest column by Kurt Hooks can be found [Assume link exists, e.g., 'on the Virginia Pilot website'].
