Why We Need to Take National Mental Health Awareness Month Seriously
May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, an observance that encourages people to recognize the significance of mental health and well-being. With the COVID-19 pandemic affecting many people’s mental health, this period of awareness has become more crucial than ever before.
One in five adults experiences mental illness in the United States at any given time. That means almost 60 million Americans, and millions more of their family members, may have to cope with the consequences of depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues this year.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this problem, with social restrictions, business closures, and the constant threat of illness causing people to feel isolated, anxious, and depressed. That’s why the need to raise awareness of mental health issues has never been higher.
The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
Many people still feel uncomfortable discussing psychological distress. Despite its prevalence, social stigmatization remains a barrier to people seeking help. Moreover, some major issues, including job loss, trauma, anxiety, and addiction, could trigger mental illness, and COVID-19 has made them more widespread.
Nevertheless, if we talk more about mental health, people might become more comfortable seeking support to manage their problems. Governments and charitable organizations’ investment in mental health programming and research can reduce stigma, strengthen services, and direct people toward the support they need.
Besides, aware and mentally healthy employees tend to be more successful, productive, and have more resilience against stress. The positive impact on the financial health of a company and society can all be significant.
How We Can Improve Mental Health Awareness
We each have a responsibility to help promote mental health awareness whether we know someone who is battling with mental health, ourselves, or not. There are several ways to address the issue and increase public awareness of mental health:
Start a Dialogue:
By starting with people close to us, we can talk openly about mental health and wellbeing. The more we speak up our experience, the more we make it in everyone’s best interest to support this particular type of struggle.
Education:
Through formal training and education, as well as reading and researching on mental illness, we can cultivate an understanding of how to help ourselves and others.
Engage with Support Networks:
Support networks provide essential resources and support to those who struggle with mental health issues. They may be anything from nonprofits to peers who have gone through the same illness.
Organize awareness campaigns:
Organizing and participating in awareness raising events can attract public attention to important issues.
Conclusion
Mental health awareness is a critical component of overall well-being. Approximately 50% of people worldwide don’t get treatment for mental health issues, primarily because of stigma, but also because there is insufficient access to services. We must all play a role in combating this pandemic. By raising awareness, breaking down barriers, and providing greater access to care, we can promote good mental health and well-being, reduce stigma and avoid the consequences of untreated mental illness.
