The goal of Mental Illness Awareness Week is to raise awareness and reduce stigma. Here are some fast facts about mental illness in the United States:
- 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year.
- Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the US.
- 60% of adults with a mental illness didn't receive treatment in the last year.
- Half of all chronic mental illnesses begin by age 14; 3/4 by age 24.
Become an advocate for mental health!
Mental Health America has outlined these actions you can take this week to show your support:
Rethink the way you understand mental health and mental illness and explore how "-isms" (such as racism, sexism, ageism, heterosexism, etc.) relate to mental health.
2. Act on advocacy
Representatives Chu and Smith introduced the PEERS Act of 2020 on September 11, 2020, an important step towards better integrating peer specialists as a key part of mental health care. Ask your Representative to co-sponsor this important bipartisan bill.
3. Support others
There are simple things that every person can say or do to help the people in their life who are struggling to get through the tough times.
4. Reset and engage in self-care
Finding ways to decompress and relax are critical to your mental health. Whether it's a nap, reading, or calling a friend, take a break from the usual grind.
5. Get screened
Take a mental health screening at MHAScreening.org. It is one of the quickest and easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. Then discuss the results with your doctor.
Source: Mental Health America
