Millions of people in the U.S. alone are affected by mental illnesses.
Mental Illness is much more common than you think.
Millions of people in the U.S. alone are affected by mental illnesses, such as major depression, general or social anxiety, bipolar, posttraumatic stress disorder, and so many others that may not be as well known to you. During Mental Illness Awareness week this October, we want to dedicate time to continue ending the stigma towards mental health disorders, as they are much more common than you may know. NAMI, the Nation Alliance on Mental Illness, reported that one in every five adults experience mental illness every year; while one in every six youth, aged between six and seventeen, experience mental illness every year, as well (June 2022).
How you can help with continuing to end stigma around mental illness:
- Begin with talking about mental health – the more we include mental health topics into our everyday conversations, the less that individuals may feel shame for experiencing these common illnesses. It is not uncommon for people to share vulnerable details about their physical illnesses, thus it should be just as normal to share about their mental illnesses, as well.
- Create a safe space – along with talking about mental health more, ensure that you are a safe and comfortable place for people who may come to you to discuss their mental health struggles. Validate their feelings and concerns, while providing support to them in these vulnerable moments.
- Be an advocate – this can include many things such as researching, voting, and joining groups and organizations that work toward funding mental health issues and continuing to end the stigma around mental health and mental illnesses.
While suffering from mental illness is common, it can still be very easy to feel alone while struggling through the various symptoms. It is crucial to continue reaching out to your social supports, maintain regular contact with your doctors, and participate in routine therapeutic sessions.
Helpful Resources:
Valley Professionals Community Health Center: Home for all your healthcare needs
National Suicide Hotline: Text/Call 988 and be directed to a trained crisis counselor
Substance Use and Mental Health National Hotline: (800)-662-4357
Mental Health by the Numbers. National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2022, June). https://nami.org/mhstats
Destiny Budd, LMHCA
Related articles
Emotional Health
Mental health counseling can benefit people struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns. In therapy, people learn to cope with symptoms that may not respond to treatment right away. Research shows the benefits of therapy last longer than medication alone.
End the Stigma
Mental illness. A frightening term for many and can make us feel quite alone if our mental health is suffering.