Mental Health Awareness Month
Since 1949, May has been observed as Mental Health Awareness Month with the intention to de-stigmatize, spread awareness and education, extend support, and advocate for policies that increase well-being and equity. This year’s theme is “Take the Moment” and you can learn more about this campaign by visiting the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). NAMI is one of the largest grassroots mental health organizations in the nation, and offers a variety of resources and free programs that emphasize education, provide peer support services, address stigma, provide resource referrals, and support people living with mental health conditions. Their programs also offer resources for family members and caregivers, as well as support for mental health providers.
Why is Mental Health Awareness Important? While we’ve seen amazing strides taken in advancing conversations around mental health, continuing to raise awareness can further de-stigmatization, increase access to quality care, and promote help-seeking behaviors. Here are a few statistics to highlight the importance of Mental Health Awareness Month…
1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year.
Only 47.2% of U.S. adults with mental illness received treatment in 2021.
1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year.
Only 65.4% of U.S. adults with serious mental illness received treatment in 2021.
1 in 6 U.S. youth have a mental health condition, but only half receive treatment.
So, this May we hope you feel encouraged to learn more about mental health and share resources that improve access to quality care. Below are additional resources that we feel everyone should be aware of that are centered around crisis intervention services, mental health first aid training, and tools that can help you or someone you know find access to treatment services. Join us this mental health awareness month in learning, sharing, and advocating!
Mental Health Resources: