Riverside University Health System hosted its "Art of Wellness" fair Thursday at Fairmount Park, offering mental health resources amid towering palms, pines and eucalyptus trees surrounding scenic lake views.
The free event, part of Mental Health Awareness Month, aimed to connect residents with behavioral health services through a community gathering.
Nearly 58 million American adults experienced mental illness in 2024, but only 43% received treatment, according to RUHS data.
The event's location in one of Riverside's most visible public spaces served as a statement that mental health should not be hidden away.
"Through events like 'The Art of Wellness,' we are creating spaces where individuals feel connected and empowered to prioritize their health," Riverside County Board Chair V. Manuel Perez said in a news release.
Dr. Matthew Chang, RUHS Behavioral Health director, described the event as “about breaking down barriers, providing tangible tools for self-care and ensuring every resident knows they are not alone in their behavioral health journey.”
Holding the resource fair in a popular public park rather than behind clinic doors helps normalize mental health as a community concern, bringing resources typically accessed through inconspicuous offices or anonymous hotlines into plain view.
The fair showcased resources including the county’s behavioral health services, nonprofit support organizations and community wellness programs.
For mental health assistance, residents can access RUHS Behavioral Health services year-round by calling the 24/7 helpline at 951-686-HELP (4357) or visiting ruhealth.org.
