Published by : May 04 2026 Posted by : Leah Fales
As we welcome the month of May, we take time to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, a reminder of how important it is to care for our emotional well-being. At Northern Valley Indian Health, we are committed to providing compassionate, culturally responsive behavioral health services and creating a space where individuals and families feel supported. Prioritizing mental health is an important part of overall wellness, and we encourage everyone to check in with themselves and their loved ones.
May is also Better Speech and Hearing Month, which highlights the importance of communication health at every stage of life. From supporting children as they develop language skills to helping adults and elders maintain connection and independence, speech and hearing services play a key role in overall health and quality of life.
On May 5, we observe Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples’ (MMIP) Awareness Day, a day to honor Indigenous people whose lives have been impacted by violence and to stand with families and communities seeking justice. This movement has grown over decades in response to disproportionately high rates of violence against Indigenous communities, along with gaps in data, resources, and jurisdictional coordination that have too often left cases unresolved. Across the country, advocates have worked to bring visibility to this crisis, uplift the voices of families, and push for systemic change, improved reporting, and greater accountability.
Wearing red on May 5 has become a symbol of this movement—representing both remembrance and the visibility of those who are missing or have been taken too soon. We stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities in honoring lives, supporting healing, and raising awareness.
Please note that all NVIH clinics will be closed on Monday, May 25 in observance of Memorial Day. We honor and remember those who have served and sacrificed for our country.
We are grateful for the opportunity to care for our communities and remain dedicated to supporting your health and well-being.
