Why We Love May:
National Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental health matters. This May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a month to spread the word about mental health. Read on to get the facts, learn about resources, and spark some ideas about getting involved this May.
The Facts about Mental Health Awareness
The statistics are staggering. National mental affects many, yet is not often talked about in public. “Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults every year – that’s 18.1% of the population.” (1) Because mental health challenges do not immediately result in physical ailments, people don’t talk about them.
Depression is also high among mothers. The birth of a baby can be a difficult transition, and hormones can send new mothers into postpartum depression. Oftentimes, new mothers don’t even realize they’re experiencing this and do not address mental health issues (2).
This is the reason for Mental Health Awareness Month in May. Raising awareness about the importance of mental health can result in more people seeking help.
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Resources for Mental Health Awareness Month
If you or your loved ones are affected by mental health issues, now is the time to get help.There are many resources you can use to find the care you need.
Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. The previous 1-800-273-TALK number will continue to function indefinitely (3).
If you’re looking for mental health care, check out The National Alliance on Mental Health website at https://www.nami.org/. NAMI has tons of mental health services.
Think you might be struggling with your mental health due to pregnancy, postpartum, abortion, or trauma? We’re here to help you find the best treatment possible.
Why We Love Mental Health Month
We love Mental Health Awareness Month because it relieves the stigma associated with mental illness. Providing and opportunity for individuals to reach out to the community helps them find a place to feel supported and encourages.
Mental health affects every part of your well-being. It determines how we engage in relationships, function in everyday tasks, and make decisions. Yet, it is not talked about often.
Through Mental Health Awareness Month, people are able to share their stories and struggles. This cultivates empathy while educating the public about suicide prevention and coping mechanisms. It’s important to understand that behavioral health disorders are medical conditions, not character flaws.
How to Observe Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month takes place throughout the entire month of May. If you’d like to get involved, wear a green ribbon in support.
You can also increase the awareness by spreading the word. Telling people about National Mental Health Awareness Month will bring the issues to the forefront of their minds. Share this article on social media or use #mentalhealthawarenessmonth.
Finally, support Mental Health Awareness Month by prioritizing your own mental health. When you take steps to do things that relax you, your overall happiness goes up, Practicing healthy habits, enjoying downtime, and getting out in nature are all things that can help you feel better.
Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month this May and help normalize this important issue.
Resources
- Shannon. (2023). Mental Health Awareness Month: What to know & how to get involved. Brightside Health. https://www.brightside.com/blog/mental-health-awareness-month/
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.) Postpartum depression. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/postpartum-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20376617
- Social Security. (n.d.) Emergency Message. Social Security Administration. https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/reference.nsf/links/08312022071724AM