MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans’ lives, and to celebrate recovery from mental illness. Millions of Americans are suffering from some form of mental health disorder. Combating mental health challenges were made worse by the isolation and trauma of the global pandemic. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports two in five adults are battling anxiety and depression, and two in five teens describe experiencing persistent sadness or hopelessness, exacerbated by social media, bullying, and gun violence. Drug overdose deaths are near record highs, and suicide is the leading cause of death among young people.
The month of May is a time to prioritize self-care and take time to recharge. And May 18 is Mental Health Action Day, a day to take one hour for yourself, your loved ones, or your community. It takes courage to fight mental health challenges. Here are a few resources:
- If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
- Disaster Distress Helpline: CALL or TEXT 1-800-985-5990 (press 2 for Spanish)
Abuse/Assault/Violence
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text LOVEIS to 22522
- National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4AChild (1-800-422-4453) or text 1-800-422-4453
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or Online Chat