Multi-year partnership continues to advance mental health in rural communities across the country
Alexandria, Va. (May 14, 2026) — This Mental Health Month, Mental Health America and West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. (West Fraser) are working together to ensure rural communities have access to vital resources and information to support mental health. Since 2024, West Fraser has partnered with Mental Health America to expand direct mental health support, practical tools, community-based outreach, resources, and education tailored to the unique needs of rural communities.
With operations rooted in United States rural communities, West Fraser recognizes that strengthening rural mental health is especially critical. Rural communities face longstanding disparities in accessing mental health care and increased stigma around seeking help, which lead to higher rates of unmet mental health needs and poorer outcomes compared to those living in urban areas.
Data from Mental Health America’s National Prevention and Screening Program show that 78% of individuals who live in rural regions and completed a mental health screen scored at risk for a mental health condition, and 53% reported they had never previously received mental health treatment or support.
“At West Fraser, we know that access to mental health support is essential to strong, resilient communities — especially in rural areas, where services can be limited,” said Sean McLaren, President and CEO of West Fraser. “Through our partnership with Mental Health America, we are proud to support accessible, data-informed resources like the Rural Mental Health Hub that allow people to seek support privately and without stigma. This work reflects our commitment to the well-being of the rural communities where we operate.”
In honor of Mental Health Month, Mental Health America and West Fraser are highlighting several resources developed through this partnership, in support of individuals and organizations in rural communities:
- Mental Health America’s Rural Mental Health Hub is an online destination offering practical resources, information, and tools to support mental health in rural communities
- Downloadable mental health materials in English and Spanish
- A request for proposals supporting community-based nonprofit organizations with innovative ideas to strengthen rural mental health
- A two-part Agricultural Stress and Mental Health Webinar Series for Stress Awareness Month focused on the unique psychological and physical pressures facing agricultural workers
“Rural communities are strong, vibrant, and resilient. Yet, we know that folks living in rural areas often experience unique challenges that can make it difficult to access mental health care and support when they need it,” said Pierluigi Mancini, Ph.D., interim president and CEO of Mental Health America. “This Mental Health Month and beyond, we are committed to working together to ensure that rural residents have the support and tools they need to have more good days.”
Mental Health America founded Mental Health Month in 1949 and has led the effort every May to promote mental wellness nationwide. This annual campaign unites millions of people to promote awareness of mental health topics, share resources, and advocate for the well-being of all. This year’s theme, More Good Days, Together, aims to help people have more good days by meeting them where they are, supporting them as whole people, and understanding that “good” is defined by their unique experience and goals. To learn more about Mental Health Month, visit mhanational.org/may.
About Mental Health America
Mental Health America (MHA) is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting the mental health and well-being of all people living in the U.S. With a network of MHA affiliates across the country, we work at both the national and local levels to advance this mission through public education, research, advocacy and public policy, and direct service. Our work is informed, designed, and led by the lived experience of those most affected. Learn more at MHAnational.org.
About West Fraser
West Fraser is a diversified wood products company with more than 50 facilities in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe, which promotes sustainable forest practices in its operations. The Company produces lumber, engineered wood products (OSB, LVL, MDF, plywood, and particleboard), pulp, newsprint, wood chips, and other residuals. West Fraser’s products are used in home construction, repair and remodelling, industrial applications, papers, tissue, and box materials. For more information about West Fraser, visit WestFraser.com.