You Good, Pinellas?

By Abby Baker

At the tail end of December 2020, four eye-catching murals joined the explosion of outdoor art in our area, but these weren’t just for show. Their message? Pinellas County residents are not alone when battling mental health issues.

To highlight the needs of many who struggle with their mental health, SHINE Mural Festival collaborated with Pinellas Wellness Connection, Foundation for a Healthy St. Pete, and Personal Enrichment through Mental Health Services to create a conglomerate of behavioral resources.

The text on the murals – a casual, but heartfelt, “You Good?”

This mural, at 2924 5th Ave N, by Leo Gomez is one of the four public works of art created for the You Good? Campaign in Pinellas County. The murals aim to connect residents with one centralized mental health hotline.

– shines in the vibrant art, with a phone number or website for help. To some, it may seem simple, but these eyecatching resources are more relevant than ever, say organizers.

“Since the beginning of the pandemic, Pinellas County, and everywhere, is seeing such an increase in mental health issues and such a volume of people that need help,” said Helena Calhoun, PEMHS marketing director. “We are just bringing people to one condensed spot through this campaign.”

The four distinct murals, each created by a local artist, display the primary Pinellas County mental health crisis contact, 727-791-3131.

The number connects callers to a live representative who puts them in touch with a mental health service provider.

Sometimes, say organizers, all someone needs is a person on the line to stay connected and listen.

“We intend for people to walk, drive, bike by these murals and reach as many people as possible,” Calhoun said. “Once you knock on the PEMHS and campaign door, you will be taken care of.”

Mural by Briauna Walker