May is Mental Health Month. What to know, where to get help | Parentally Speaking
May is Mental Health Month, an observance dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting mental wellness.
With a history dating back over 70 years, this month-long initiative serves as a platform for advocacy, education, and support for individuals living with mental health conditions.
Here's a closer look at why May was chosen as Mental Health Month and why it's crucial in addressing mental health challenges.
May was designated as Mental Health Month to coincide with the establishment of Mental Health America (MHA), one of the leading mental health advocacy organizations in the United States. MHA was founded in 1909 by Clifford W. Beers, who himself struggled with mental illness and aimed to improve conditions for those experiencing similar challenges. Over time, MHA's efforts expanded, leading to the recognition of May as Mental Health Month to further their mission of raising awareness and reducing stigma surrounding mental health.
Moreover, May serves as an opportune time to address mental health concerns due to several factors. For instance, the transition from spring to summer often brings increased social activities and outdoor events, offering opportunities to engage communities in discussions about mental health. Additionally, May marks the end of the school year for many students, making it an ideal time to focus on mental wellness initiatives in educational settings and provide support for students experiencing stress or anxiety.
Mental Health Month aligns with other significant events and observances, such as National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day and National Women's Health Week, allowing for collaborative efforts to address mental health across different demographics and populations. By consolidating these efforts under the umbrella of Mental Health Month, organizations can amplify their messages and reach a broader audience.
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One of the primary goals of Mental Health Month is to combat stigma surrounding mental illness. Despite progress in recent years, stigma remains a significant barrier to seeking help and receiving adequate support for mental health conditions. Through public education campaigns, storytelling, and community events, Mental Health Month aims to challenge stereotypes, promote empathy, and encourage open conversations about mental health.
Furthermore, Mental Health Month provides an opportunity to highlight the importance of mental wellness practices and self-care strategies. Activities such as mindfulness exercises, stress management workshops, and wellness challenges are often promoted during this time to empower individuals to prioritize their mental health and adopt healthy coping mechanisms.
Another critical aspect of Mental Health Month is advocacy for increased access to mental health services and resources. This includes advocating for policy changes, increased funding for mental health programs, and improved integration of mental health care into primary care settings. By advocating for systemic changes, Mental Health Month seeks to address disparities in access to mental health care and ensure that all individuals have the support they need to thrive.
And, Mental Health Month serves as a reminder of the prevalence of mental health conditions and the importance of supporting those who are struggling. By sharing personal stories, providing resources, and offering support networks, Mental Health Month fosters a sense of community and solidarity among individuals affected by mental illness.
Finally, May is Mental Health Month because of its historical significance, its alignment with other important events, and its focus on combating stigma, promoting mental wellness, and advocating for increased access to mental health care. By raising awareness and fostering dialogue, Mental Health Month plays a crucial role in advancing mental health initiatives and supporting individuals on their journey toward wellness.
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Ezra Helfand is CEO/Executive Director of the Wellspring Center for Prevention (formerly NCADD of Middlesex County, Inc.) You can reach him at ezra.helfand@wellspringprevention.org.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: May is Mental Health Month. What to know, where to get help
