We tend to be quick to go to the doctor if we have a cold or
pain in our body. But when it comes to our mental health, many of us do not
take care of it like we should. Remember- your health matters- including mental
health! National Mental Health Month raises awareness about various mental
health illnesses and related issues.
Luckily, as time evolves, so has the mindset of many and the
stigma associated with mental health has gone down. There has been a wave of
acceptance towards these issues and more support is being provided to those who
suffer from them. Did you know 1 in 5 people will be affected by mental illness
in this country?
The campaign shared this month is the Why Care? campaign.
This provides for an opportunity to share the importance of taking care of our
mental health. It is also a time to support those who live with a mental
illness every day and a time to educate how many people are affected by mental
illness from families, caregivers and loved ones. By caring about mental
illness and working to get help for those with mental health issues, we have
the power to make a life-changing impact.
WhyCare?
Care is a 4-letter word, but a powerful way to change lives
for those dealing with mental health issues. People feel loved when someone
cares. People also feel heard when someone cares. And people recover when
someone cares. You can participate by sharing your personal stories on social
media using the hashtag #WhyCare. You can also look for awareness events
to participate in.
May 6th marks National Children’s Mental Health
Awareness Day and is a day to focus on youth mental health. For more information
on this please visit https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day.
On that day you can also participate in a webcast on Suicide Prevention:
Strategies That Work. The event will focus on how suicide impacts children,
youth, adults, families, and communities.
Then on May 20th you can view a webinar on Older Mental Health
Awareness Day 2019 which focuses on the mental health and substance use of
seniors.
Each year, more than 41,000 individuals die by suicide. It is
important we take notice and care for the people in our lives. Check up on your
friends and family. If you or a loved one is in crises or experiencing suicidal
thoughts, please call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If
anyone is in any immediate danger, please do not hesitate to contact 9-1-1 for help.
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