May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, and people everywhere are doing their part to support the cause and help raise awareness. Millions of Americans and millions of other citizens around the globe live with the reality and struggles of mental health issues, which is why May is a time to recognize their struggle and lend a helping hand in any way people can.
There are several organizations that help the cause and fight alongside ordinary people, such as National Alliance on Mental Illness and the American Hospital Association. These organizations provide funds and manpower to help raise awareness for the struggle many people go through every day. NAMI also provides funds and other resources for support, education, and advocacy in terms of mental health and other stigmas.
Mental Health Stigmas
Much progress has been made in the last few years pertaining to helping people through their mental health issues and overcoming their own battles, but there’s still so much more we as a society can do. Representations of those struggling with mental health are still predominantly negative and can be combated with positivity online and in real life.
The media still shapes how many see those with mental health issues, which is a cause for concern among those trained and experienced in fighting these types of stigmas. You can help join the fight by spreading awareness about the issue and telling people about your own story.
Little by little, we as a society and a global community can help put an end to the stigmas surrounding mental health and help our fellow man overcome their struggles. It’s a large task but it’s absolutely possible if we all join together.
The Importance of the Month
Millions of Americans live silently with many forms of mental health issues. The most severe of these are illnesses such as depression, chronic anxiety, and less common schizophrenia. Many often feel stigmatized and left out of the national discussion when it comes to mental health and having a helping hand to guide them through their issues and questions.
That’s why NAMI has recently announced that the theme for 2021’s Mental Health Month campaign will be “You’re Not Alone.” The organization has stated that they wish to amplify the message and give people everywhere hope and optimism about their conditions, as well as encourage them to seek professional guidance and answers about the conditions with which they’re living.
How You Can Help
There are many ways to get involved with NAMI and other organizations which are doing all they can during Mental Health Awareness Month. You can visit their website to share your own stories of struggle and read the stories of others that have been on shared social media and other sites. Spreading a message of hope and optimism may help others who are in the circumstances you found yourself in during past struggles.
You can also help people close to you by expressing concern and support. Starting a conversation can give you the opportunity to provide information, support, and guidance. Asking questions and listening without judgment will help keep communication lines open. Having a supportive community to help you through tough times is crucial and the first step in addressing unmet mental health needs.
You can spread the hashtag #NotAlone on social media and download the guide to Mental Health Awareness found on the NAMI website. If you or anybody you know is struggling with mental health issues, you can help them by putting them in touch with a professional. There are many mental health experts and practitioners in your local community and resources.
Do you need guidance on finding mental health resources for you, your family, or your organization? We can help! Contact a Bedsiide Health Assistant today!
