May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues. This month was established in 1949 to break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote overall well-being for every member of society.
Learn more about the importance of Mental Health Awareness Month, common mental health conditions, the damaging effects of stigma, and resources available to support mental health.
Understanding Mental Health and Its Prevalence
Mental health is foundational to one’s life, which comprises our emotional, psychological, and social states of being. It affects how we think, feel, and act in every situation of life. Our mental health even plays a significant role in how we handle stress, make choices, and relate to others.
Unfortunately, mental health conditions are more common than many realize. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1 in 4 people worldwide will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives. These conditions can range from anxiety and depression to more severe illnesses like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Mental health can even pose difficulties in the workplace.
How Stigma Impacts Mental Health Treatment
Despite the prevalence of mental health conditions, stigma and discrimination still exist, preventing many individuals from seeking critical support and treatment. Stigma can arise from misconceptions, fear, and stereotypes surrounding mental health, leading to intense shame and isolation for those affected. This stigma not only affects individuals with mental health conditions, but it can damage their families and communities.
By promoting and sharing Mental Health Awareness Month, we can help combat stigma, foster understanding, and encourage productive conversations about mental health.
The Importance of Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity to shed light on mental health, educate the public, and promote mental well-being for all. There are many ways you can support others and the community.
Raise Awareness
By dedicating a month to mental health awareness, we can bring attention to its importance and how it impacts our lives. Awareness marks the first step towards supporting those with mental health conditions and laying the foundation for more resources to be established.
Educate the Public
Mental Health Awareness Month allows us to share information about various mental health conditions, treatment options, and available resources to inform instead of judging and discriminating. Share your knowledge with others and learn more about common mental health conditions, like anxiety and depression.
End the Stigma
Breaking the stigma that has surrounded mental health for decades allows individuals to accept how they feel and empowers them to seek help and support.
Resources for Mental Health Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, know that help is available. There are a variety of resources for support, treatment, and even just to talk about thoughts and feelings.
For immediate help, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that is provided by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration. Remember that there is someone out there who will listen and help you find the care you deserve. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org
To find treatment nearby, the CDC has prepared a list of resources that can connect you to a professional. These resources include FindTreatment.gov and locate a provider from the American Psychiatric Association.
Finding an experienced therapist can be life changing to recover from mental health conditions to live a fulfilling, purposeful life.
Making A Difference At Meridian Advanced Psychiatry
Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to come together as a community and show our support for mental health. At Meridian Advanced Psychiatry, we offer a range of treatments to support and help those struggling. Our treatments include individual therapy, medication management, group therapy, and holistic interventions.
Remember that mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking care is a sign of strength. If you or someone you know needs support, reach out to us at (208) 515-CARE. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those facing mental health challenges.
References
World Health Organization. (2019, December 19). Mental health. Who.int; World Health Organization: WHO. https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health#tab=tab_1
Mental Health Conditions | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2023). Nami.org. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions
Mental Health Month. (2023). Mental Health America. https://www.mhanational.org/mental-health-month