It’s time to step up against the stigma that surrounds mental health.
“We all know stigma really remains a huge challenge within our community; it prevents people from accessing care. It really promotes shame. Mental health is health,” said Michelle Smith, Horry County’s Behavioral Services Director.
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Horry County Behavioral Services and Parks and Recreation hosted the inaugural Steps Against Stigma Wellness Walk and Resource Fair on Friday, May 15, 2026.
The event was designed to bridge the gap between the community and the services available to assist them all while enjoying a peaceful walk through the scenic Vereen Memorial Gardens.
“Mental health impacts every aspect of our community,” said Smith. “So, this is just a small step toward Horry County really solidifying that we’re prioritizing mental wellness within our community and an opportunity for the community to see what services are available.”
Participants were able to form connections with two dozen service providers, including:
• ACCESS FAVOR
• Advanced Practice Mental Health and Wellness
• Christian Recovery Centers Inc - CRCI
• Coastal Samaritan Counseling Center
• Crossroads Centers Myrtle Beach
• Grand Strand Medical Center-South Strand Behavioral Health
• HC3 Horry County Community Collaborative
• Horry County Animal Care Center
• Horry County Fire Rescue- Harm Reduction Program
• Horry County Parks and Recreation
• Horry County Police Department- Crisis Intervention Team Counselors
• Isaiah 117 House Horry County
• Lighthouse Behavioral Health Hospital
• Little River Medical Center
• Myrtle Beach Police Department
• Nami GrandStrand SC
• New Directions of Horry County
• Radial Myrtle Beach
• Sea Haven
• Shoreline Behavioral Health Services
• The Center for Counseling and Wellness
• The Shepherd's Table
• Thornwell Myrtle Beach
• Welvista
“This event is really about connection, awareness and bringing everyone together to let individuals know that help is available all they have to do is reach out,” explained Smith.
Horry County Behavioral Services and Horry County Parks and Recreation hope to continue hosting this event in the years to come in other locations around Horry County.