Since 1949, the month of May has been celebrated as Mental Health Awareness Month, spearheaded by Clifford W. Beers of Mental Health America. It was established to raise awareness and bring attention to the mental well-being of Americans.
Mental health is one of the health issues that receives constant attention around the world since it is regarded as critical to a person’s total well-being. Mental Health Awareness Month is a fantastic way to de-stigmatize mental disorders and celebrate healing from the various mental problems that exist. It proved to be an excellent initiative to gain a better understanding of mental illness, as people often suffer in silence, fearing that they can’t be understood or treated.
Here are some statistics about the issue of mental health in the U.S.:
- 1 out of 6 youths have mental health problems, but only half of them receive treatment.
- Of American adults, 1 in 5 suffer from mental health illness.
- 1 in 25 adults in America lives with a serious mental condition. They may be schizophrenic, bipolar, or depressed.
- 3.6 million youth suffer from severe depression or about 14.6% of the population.
- 46% of American adults will fit the criteria for a diagnosable mental health issue at some point in their lives.
- 3.7% of U.S. youth ages 12-17 have attempted suicide.
- 9 million adults in the U.S have post-traumatic stress disorder.
- 3.5 million of the adult population have borderline personality disorder.
The Importance of Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month is an excellent opportunity to broaden the route of understanding, reduce misconception and shame, and encourage individuals, whether afflicted or not, to join a support group or seek professional treatment.
It is significant for everyone — family, friends, and other persons in the community — to realize how big the impact of mental wellness has on our everyday lives. Advocating awareness is one way of bringing attention and support to the importance of mental health. Opportunities such as community outreach, events, bazaars, and the like can be excellent ways to educate, give tips, and share knowledge about mental health.
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of a healthy mind.