
Published: Oct. 9, 2025 at 10:19 PM CDT
Read the article on the KKCO 11 News Website.
Charles Jernigan, Clinical Manager at Porch Light Health, joined KKCO 11 News to discuss Mental Illness Awareness Week, the importance of reducing stigma around mental health conditions, the strong connection between mental illness and substance use disorders, and how compassionate support and community resources can help people access the care they need on Colorado’s Western Slope.
KKCO 11 News
If you or someone you know has struggled with mental illness or mental health issues, you’re not alone. It’s Mental Illness Awareness Week, a week dedicated to reducing the stigma around this topic and encouraging individuals to seek help for mental health issues. Reporter Wiley Mitchell has more.
Wylee Mitchell
Did you know that two of the most common mental health conditions are depression and anxiety? I spoke with an expert in the field to understand why it’s important to bring awareness to both mental illness and mental health.
Charles Jernigan
Mental illness is a disease, right? Just like diabetics are a disease, cancer is a disease. If we treat these things that way, people are more open to getting involved and getting the care that they need.
Wylee Mitchell
Portslite Health says there’s a strong connection between mental health and substance use issues.
Charles Jernigan
What we’ve noticed is when people have substance abuse issues, it also causes mental health problems for them. It also affects their whole wealth well-being as a person.
Wylee Mitchell
Some common mental health diagnosis are depression, anxiety, and aggression.
Charles Jernigan
With the stigma of mental illness, people are like, Well, I don’t want people to think that I’m crazy or something. So if you remove that as being a stigma and let people know this is an illness just like any other, go to these organizations to get help.
Wylee Mitchell
It may not be an easy conversation, but if you notice a friend or family member is struggling and may need treatment, government. It is important to reach out and let them know that help is available.
Charles Jernigan
If you let them know and be compassionate in a caring standpoint, people will understand we’re doing this for your well-being.
Wylee Mitchell
If you or someone you know is looking for help, there’s a list of local resources available on our website. In Grand Junction, I’m Wiley Mitchell reporting.
KKCO 11 News
And in addition to Mental Illness Awareness Week, tomorrow is also World Mental Health Day.





