National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month at GVH

July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a time to recognize and address the unique challenges minority populations face in accessing mental health care. At Gunnison Valley Health, this recognition goes beyond symbolism; it reflects our ongoing commitment to making behavioral health services accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for everyone in our community. 

While mental health affects all people, cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic barriers can make it significantly harder for minority groups to seek support. In rural areas like Gunnison County, these barriers can be even more pronounced. 

“One of our core values at Gunnison Valley Health is to promote the health of our entire population by providing services that meet the needs of our community members,” said Jennifer Birnie, Vice President of Community Health and Development. “Mental health care should meet people where they are, culturally, linguistically, and emotionally. At GVH, we’re working to create opportunities where every individual feels seen, heard, and supported.” 

Prioritizing Spanish- and Cora-Speaking Communities 

In Gunnison County, many community members speak Spanish or Cora as their first language. For these individuals, navigating the healthcare system can be incredibly difficult without adequate language and cultural support. 

“There’s often a stigma around expressing mental health needs in the Spanish and Cora-speaking communities,” said Cinthia Sanez, one of GVH’s Bilingual Patient Navigators. “But that’s changing. Because of our outreach, people are starting to understand what behavioral health is and how it can help.” 

To help foster understanding and provide practical tools, GVH sponsors a Peer Support Specialist training specifically for the immigrant community. This free, five-day course teaches individuals how to support others facing mental health challenges, life stressors, and substance use issues. 

The most recent training, held in May, saw 15 participants graduate with certificates they can use to pursue additional education or careers in behavioral health. The next session will take place August 11–15 at the Gunnison County Library. 

“Attending the sessions helped me realize I’m not alone when it comes to concerns around mental health,” said Yudit Zeferino Serrano, also a Bilingual Patient Navigator at GVH. “We’re actively equipping people in our community to feel comfortable asking for help.” 

If you or someone you know is interested in the August class, please contact Cinthia Sanez at 970-648-7740. 

Reaching underserved populations in the valley requires partnership and collaboration with other organizations. Juntos por Gunnison is a local organization dedicated to supporting Spanish-speaking residents with culturally informed resources and community programs. Juntos por Gunnison was started a year ago, in August of 2024, and has been a strategic community partner with GVH ever since. They have helped host numerous classes and workshops, providing valuable knowledge to members of Gunnison’s Spanish and Cora speaking populations.  

“Working with Juntos por Gunnison, has enabled the health system to extend life-saving care to people who might otherwise fall through the cracks due to cultural and language barriers,” said Sanez who is also a member of the Juntos por Gunnison board of directors.    

Working Toward Health Equity 

Another important tool helping us administer mental health services to more areas of our population is our connection to the 988 Mental Health Lifeline. 

This free and confidential mental health hotline is available 24/7, providing immediate support to individuals experiencing mental health distress, substance use issues, or suicidal thoughts. Callers are quickly connected with one of GVH’s trained mobile crisis clinicians who can provide accessible and immediate care in a confidential setting.  

“Our connection with 988 offers a judgment-free zone for people to access help immediately,” said Kimberly Behounek, Director of Behavioral Health. 
“It also gives individuals in our community who may not know where to turn an easier entry point to seek necessary care and resources.” 

By being connected to our community through 988, GVH can respond more quickly to urgent needs, reduce stigma around seeking help, and ensure that members of our minority communities have a direct line to compassionate, and responsive care. 

To learn more about the 988 Lifeline, visit 988Colorado.com or simply call 988 from any phone. 

While there’s still work to be done, National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to celebrate progress, elevate community voices, and recommit to serving all patients with dignity, empathy, and respect. 

You’re Not Alone — Support Is Here 

Whether you're seeking care for yourself or helping a loved one take the first step, GVH’s Behavioral Health team is here to help. Services include inpatient care, outpatient therapy, crisis stabilization, and emotional wellness support. 

Visit https://www.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/our-services/behavioral-health or call 970-648-7128 to learn more.