“Why Is Mental Health Awareness Month Important?”
Working in the field of Psychology for two decades has taught me a lot. Working through my own mental health recovery for over three decades has taught me even more.
I have seen the changes which have occurred during this time because of mental health advocates (i.e., clients, their families and loved ones, practitioners systems, policy holders, related) who continue to support the reduction in stigma.
Before we dive into anything, a small review: What is Mental Health Awareness Month?
Mental Health Awareness Month occurs May of every year. During this month there is a recognition of mental and behavioral health as an important component to wellness. This month is a time for us to slow down and consider some things:
Mental health and behavioral health are essential to overall health
Encouraging education and shared experience with mental health
Recognition and ongoing commitment to reducing stigma
Mental health impacts and can affect a person in their daily living
Opportunities for outreach and fundraising for programs, practitioners and more to assist with expansion of services so more populations can have access
Next, what makes Mental Health Awareness Month important?
It continues all the goals of above, and why is THAT important?
All of these goals promote a mission to continue to reduce stigma of mental health
All of these goals promote that people matter. Health as a whole matters
Recognition of the mind-body connect and the importance of whole wellness, not just one part
Increases funding and access to services to continue to help at-risk and vulnerable populations
Mental health is medical care and that is a patient right
And, what are some things that I have seen Mental Health Awareness do for this field?
It has in fact, REDUCED stigma. It is still present in many areas and populations yet more people than ever are calling for help. They are not staying silent.
I have seen awareness and treatment help people. Not just from their reports of feeling or being better but their loved ones seeing improvement.
I have seen awareness bring people together. We are not meant to do this alone. I do not believe we can do things alone that are difficult.
I have had more people from underserved populations seeking out help and care.
I have seen the development of programs both in clinics communities to help underserved populations.
Funding has increased across the board both state and federally.
I have seen it inspire people to help in this field not just as practitioners but in so many other roles.
I have seen increased support given to families after mental health tragedies. That includes communities after communal tragedies. There is now a recognition when people hurt, suffer, or pass on: WE ARE AFFECTED. It stays with us.
I have sat with clients, families, and couples for thousands of hours. I have heard them believe and have faith in the process they knew little about and come out on the other side.
There is now a 9-8-8 National Crisis Line for each state that is recognized as a support.
I begin to recognize children who are recognized as IMPORTANT and essential and how we prepare them for their adulthoods. We are still figuring this one out in an everchanging world, RAPID changing world. Yet I have all the confidence we will do it and continue to change.
This month allows me in my lived experience to SLOW DOWN and remember how far I have come and that I am still here.
This month allows me time to reflect on the loss of my brother due to mental health and addiction, failed systems, and begin to speak out in honor of him.
This month allows me to educate and give back.
This month inspired me to start Mental Health Provider Appreciation Day to recognize ALL of the unsung heroes.
And SO much more…
That’s the tip of the iceberg. It isn’t REMOTELY the fullest thing. There is so much more. So much.
And, what can we do to celebrate Mental Health Awareness month?
Keep talking about mental health and advocating
Sharing your story or narrative as a client or family member, how promoting mental health and wellness has helped you
Sharing your story or narrative as a provider, how promoting mental health and wellness has helped you
Sharing on social media a post about a resource
Reaching out to a loved one and checking in about you and how YOU are
Reaching out to a loved one and checking in about how THEY are
Resharing a post that you connected to that helped you with your wellness
Following a new page or social media account which promotes mental health
Self-care is #1, as a habit! Remember to allow your brain rest and enjoyment
May 12th is Mental Health Provider Appreciation Day, share your appreciation for someone who helped
Continue to stay with us, be here, share, connect.
What ideas do YOU have? Leave comments with more ideas!
Also, please know that for Mental Health Crisis Support and Resources, the national hotline for the United States is 9-8-8. Reach out. You matter.
Until next time?
Evolve and Heal On, My Friends.
AT
Writer: Anne C Totero, LMFT
Date: 5/3/2024, Original, No AI Included in the Formation of this Article
NOTE: This is educational and informational ONLY. This does not replace medical treatment. These are considerations from an educational standpoint. These do not reflect clients, colleagues, or employers in the past, present or future. These are done during after hours or during personal time. Please consult medical providers or care team. This also does not assume a clinical or supervisory role by reading the articles.
