Mental health is a taboo subject to some, but for me, it is something that I do not like to shy away from. I have several family members who experience depression and other mental health issues, and for years, it was ignored and not talked about. For whatever reason, a negative stigma has been associated with the discussion of mental health and mental disorders, and has been dealt by sweeping it under the rug. Thankfully, the focus on the word health prevails, and my family members have gotten the help and assistance they need in order to help their depression and are living better lives because of it.
According to Mental Health America, May is Mental Health Month, a month of awareness for mental health issues that began in 1949.
1 in 4 people suffer from mental illness or mental disorders which can cause havoc for families and loved ones. When mental illness is not handled or dealt with, many problems can result—problems which do not have to be if they are addressed and properly diagnosed.
Another problem with mental health is there is not a one-size fits all method or cure. There are a variety of methods to help one suffering from mental illness or imbalances including medication and therapy, but often one has to go through many prescriptions and doctors before finding the right fit. Now that there is more focus being put on mental health and methods to help those who suffer with issues, I am hoping that more people can be helped so they can live normal and fulfilling lives.
What can you do to help spread the message of Mental Health Month?
You can use the #mentalhealthmonth hashtag on Twitter and share your story or dealing with mental health, using your own message, or that of someone you love.
You can also tweet these pre-prepared tweets from Mental Health America:
Do More for 1 in 4: It’s Mental Health Month http://bit.ly/PzAka #mentalhealthmonth
Do More for 1 in 4: It’s Mental Health Month. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Go to http://bit.ly/hmWGSW #mentalhealthmonth
Who’s your 1 in 4? Support from family, friends, peers essential in recovery. Learn how to help at http://bit.ly/fkiy8J
In addition, you can spread the message of Mental Health Month on Facebook with your status using links to the official May is Mental Health page.
Read material on a variety of subjects on the official May is Mental Health page, which include 2011 Fact Sheets regarding mental health.
For more information on Mental Health Month or about Mental Health America, click HERE.
Are you going to support May is Mental Health Month?
The stigma part really stinks. People think if you have a brain disorder that it means you will not ever be “normal”. This is so unfair – with correct medical treatment most will lead very typical lives.
Thank you for sharing about Mental Health Month on your blog 🙂
Hi Danyelle,
great post with a lot of information on the subject of mental health. I am glad about your family doing better. If people like yourself do not speak out and share then useful info like this will never get into the hands of those that need it and may not realize it.
God Bless you,
Joe Young