May is Mental Health Awareness Month

According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) approximately 22.8% of all adult Americans experience some form of mental illness in their lifetime. Roughly, that’s one out of every twenty adults in America including those who have an intellectual disability. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an annual observance established by Mental Health America in 1949 to emphasize the importance of mental wellbeing. This year the theme of Mental Health Awareness month is Turn Awareness into Action!  The hope is that we all go beyond only being aware of mental illness and take steps toward positive changes within ourselves and our communities. Here are some ideas on some steps you can take:

For more ideas check out

30 Creative Ideas for Mental Health Awareness Month:  https://www.carerev.com/blog/30-mental-health-awareness-month-ideas

Mental Health America: https://mhanational.org/mental-health-month/

Ways To Participate: Mental Health Awareness Month: https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/current-events/mental-health-awareness-month-promoting-better-mental-health-care-within-communities/

1. Educate yourself by learning about the signs and symptoms of some of the most common mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, etc.  Check out our trainings at the PCHC site.
2. Practice self-care by taking care of your body and mind with exercise, yoga, a healthy diet and sleep.
3. Advocate for mental health by supporting organizations and policies that promote well-being and share your story.
4. Support others by checking in with family and friends and being an active listener who does not judge.