Every year, the month of May is dedicated to National Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a time to remind us of the importance of emotional well-being, break the stigma, and encourage open conversations about mental health.
Mental health is crucial for our overall well-being as it affects the way we think, feel, and cope with life. It influences our relationships with others, daily productivity, and the quality of life. According to the National Institutes of Health, there are 57.8 million adults who live with some form of mental illness in 2024. A study by Mental Health America, however, reports that over half of those adults with mental illness did not receive any treatment. Part of the reason people often hesitate to seek help is because of the stigma or the feeling of shame and embarrassment surrounding this issue.
National Mental Health Awareness Month aims to change that. Through different social media campaigns, community events, or educational programs, people are encouraged to learn more about the illness, speak up, and support those who are struggling.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) promoted their campaign with the theme “In Every Story, There’s Strength,” advocating for the power of storytelling and raising awareness. NAMI encourages those who have suffered to share their journeys, whether through a video, an audio recording, or a written story. This campaign of sharing stories celebrates resilience, reduces stigma, and fosters understanding and sympathy.
Mental Health America provides a series called “Tools 2 Thrive” which offers practical tools for managing stress, boosting resilience, and navigating difficult emotions. It includes downloadable toolkits and resources for individuals, schools, and organizations to use for educational purposes. It stands out for its emphasis on prevention, personal empowerment, and practical self-care, rather than just crisis intervention, helping people take achievable steps toward better mental wellness.
So what about you? What can you do to help? Start by checking up on your loved ones, asking them how they are feeling, and listening without judgment. Learn the signs of common mental health struggles and don’t be afraid to reach out to someone who might be having a hard time. Educate yourself using reliable resources and share what you learn to help reduce stigma. Most importantly, take care of your own mental health. Practice self-care, set healthy boundaries, and don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it.
