You’re not alone, you’re not hidden, and you’re especially not a burden. This month is a month of recognition, a month of a call to action, a month where your voice can reach many and make a change.
Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been the call to action and force of addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental conditions, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Mental health looks different for everyone. Yet the strength and resilience found in millions across our country- and within you, is truly remarkable. NAMI’s campaign “In Every Story, There’s Strength” in which celebrates the power of storytelling to inspire understanding, connection, and a hope for those on their own mental health journey.
Mental Health Awareness Month began in the U.S. just 76 years ago and was started by Mental Health America (MHA) also known as the National Association for Mental Health. This awareness month is to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, educate the public, and reduce stigma and promote support for those affected by mental health conditions. During the month of May, MHA and other organizations interested in mental health manage a number of activities which are based on a different theme each year.
The Mental Health month ribbon is green, symbolizing hope, strength, and emotional support for those affected by mental illness.
According to the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, “More than 30 million people in the U.S. still lack access to comprehensive high quality care.” Such statistics highlight the ongoing need for this awareness month and the importance of bringing attention to these next facts:
- 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental Illness each year
- 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
- 1 in 6 U.S. youth have a mental health condition, but only half received treatment
- 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
- In 2023, 20% of al high school students seriously considered suicide.
Because of misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental health issues, people often suffer in silence and don’t seek help. Mental health awareness is an important drive to help improve understanding of mental health conditions and increase access to healthcare for those who need it.
Recognition and education are important ways to remove and overcome the stigma associated with mental illness. Mental Health Awareness month creates a time and space to start conversation. Talking openly about mental health can reduce the misconceptions and stigma, and can encourage those who are suffering to find support and seek help.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with mental health, the most courageous step you can take is to reach out and start the conversation. You are not alone. Right here in our own school, there are people who care, who are ready to listen, support, and walk with you through whatever you’re facing. There is strength, not shame, in seeking help.
