As the calendar turns to May, it marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Month, a crucial period for advocating, understanding, and destigmatizing mental health issues. This year, amidst the ongoing global challenges, the focus on mental health couldn't be more relevant. Mental health is not just a personal issue; it's a universal human right that demands attention, care, and advocacy. It's a reminder that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves access to mental health resources, support, and understanding. Mental health issues often face discrimination, neglect, and lack of resources, hindering individuals from exercising this fundamental human right. One of the primary barriers to mental health care is stigma. Fear of judgment and discrimination prevents many from seeking help or speaking openly about their struggles. In October during LACPA convention Dr. Derald Wing Sue will provide us with the knowledge, skills and tactics that we can use in our continuing efforts to disarm and dismantle racism and bias. 

Access to mental health services is another critical aspect of ensuring mental health as a universal human right. 

Professional Advocacy: Do a Lot by Doing a Little More.
Lisa Osborn, Psy.D.

Once again, it is time for the annual issue of The Los Angeles Psychologist devoted to professional advocacy. We are now in our fifth year, which I find very hard to believe. Where has the time gone? Again, I would like to offer my expression of gratitude to the Editorial Board and LACPA Board of Directors for their commitment to the vital importance of professional advocacy to our profession and providing a forum in which to continue to educate and inspire our membership.