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Raising Mental Health Awareness
- Updated: May 11, 2024
By Mike Villarreal
May is a pivotal month dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and its significance. Mental Health Awareness Month is an annual observance that began in 1949 and has served as a tool for addressing the challenges faced by many Americans living with mental health conditions. The objective of this month-long observance is to increase understanding of mental health and wellness in individuals’ lives, celebrate recovery from mental illness, and provide resources and information to support communities and individuals who may require mental health assistance.
Despite progress in mental health awareness and advocacy, negative stigma around mental illness persists. Studies show this is mainly due to media stereotypes and a lack of education. Mental health conditions are attached to negative stigmas at higher rates than to other diseases and disabilities, such as cancer, diabetes, or heart disease. Unfortunately, many people do not go out and receive the necessary care they need due to the stigma it creates. Some people are unaware that treatment is available, leading them to suffer silently and feel isolated.
Mental Health Awareness Month aims to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health and promote seeking help. It’s a month dedicated to promoting mental health literacy and providing access to resources to help needy individuals. These include counseling, therapy, support groups, and other resources to help individuals recover and thrive.
Maintaining good mental health is essential for well-being since it can significantly impact personal and professional relationships. The workplace and school settings are two places where mental health can be most affected. This is why it is especially important to prioritize our mental well-being and seek assistance when needed.
Let’s unite to raise awareness about the importance of mental health during this critical time. It encourages individuals and communities to prioritize mental health and seek help when needed, providing access to resources that can help individuals recover and thrive and break down the stigma surrounding mental illness.
