Real stories, real hope: Explore San Bernardino County Behavioral Health Services

"San Bernardino County Update", yellow arrowhead and "SBCounty.gov

San Bernardino County’s Department of Behavioral Health is proud to recognize May as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to elevating mental wellness, reducing stigma, and encouraging connection to supportive services. As part of this month‑long effort, the “Explore San Bernardino County Services” media campaign, in partnership with Behavioral Health, is launching.

Rooted in authentic, first‑person narratives and supported by video storytelling, portrait photography, and digital outreach, “Explore San Bernardino County Behavioral Health Services” strengthens community awareness, builds trust and ensures every resident knows where to turn for help on their path to hope, healing and recovery.

At the heart of this campaign are the voices of our community — real people whose journeys remind us that behavioral health challenges touch every family. The individuals featured represent our brothers, sisters, sons and daughters, each courageously stepping forward to share their lived experiences in hopes of helping others.

Meet Juliette, she began using alcohol and substances at a young age. After serving some time in jail, Juliette was unhoused and didn’t know where to go. When she realized her life was headed downhill, she sought help through a coworker whose aunt received services through County Behavioral Health. Today, she has been sober for a month and is working toward completing her education and re‑entering the workforce. Her determination is a testament to recovery, courage and second chances.

Meet David, originally from Louisiana, he endured a difficult childhood losing his grandma and stepdad, and spent several years unhoused before being introduced to County Behavioral Health services. David used substances to fill a void, until he realized that every time the effects went away, the problem just got bigger. For a long time, he didn’t feel worthy of support — but through County Behavioral Health, he finally felt seen, valued and capable of change. His story shows how connection and validation can reignite hope.

Their stories are authentic, deeply human and reflective of the resilience found throughout San Bernardino County. By elevating these voices, County Behavioral Health honors the strength it takes to seek help and reaffirms our commitment to providing compassionate, accessible support to everyone who needs it.

For more information about County Behavioral Health programs, services or upcoming events, visit https://wp.sbcounty.gov/dbh/ or follow County Behavioral Health on social media @SBCDBH.

About Department of Behavioral Health
The San Bernardino County Department of Behavioral Health provides compassionate, trauma‑informed, culturally responsive mental health and substance use disorder services to children, youth, adults, and families across the county. DBH supports individuals experiencing emotional crisis, substance use challenges, homelessness, justice involvement, life transitions, and those seeking long‑term recovery and wellness. These services are specifically designed for people with severe mental illness, Medi-Cal recipients, and those who are in crisis, ensuring that those with the most urgent and complex needs receive timely help and support.

Additional County Update News – May 7, 2026