Before you read this blog, look around you and check your surroundings. Who are your closest loved ones? They may have something in common. You might not even realize it either.
Did you know that one out of every four Americans suffers from a mental illness? That equates to around 56% of the population. It is difficult to raise awareness. Do people really understand the importance of this month? Despite the fact that many people suffer in silence, is a reason why mental health is crucial to tackle.
Health Care plays a significant role in spreading the awareness to the public.
This month marks mental health awareness month.
What is Mental Health Awareness Month?
Since 1949, the month of May has been observed in the United States. Recognizing that mental health is a vital component of one's overall health and wellness, and that mental diseases are prevalent and curable, has never been more important than it is now.
While some of us may be more vulnerable than others, we all face challenges in life that can negatively impact our mental health. After all, only a few months ago, none of us could have predicted that the coronavirus would upend our lives and that worry, isolation, loneliness, depression, and anxiety would become universal experiences shared by everyone.
Mental health issues affect everyone. It doesn't matter the age or the gender. Nevertheless, there is a stigma behind mental health.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), almost one in every five individuals in the United States suffers from a severe mental disease. By the age of 14, half of all chronic mental illnesses have started, and three-quarters have started by the age of 24. In the United States, an estimated 17.3 million individuals experienced at least one severe depressive episode.
Mental Health Awareness spreads the word around to help people find the guidance they need.
Why Mental Health Awareness is Important
The spread of awareness can save lives. It's not getting better either. As time progresses, we see the results. Suicide has grown considerably, despite gains in contemporary technology and accommodations.
Suicide rates increased by 30% between 2000 and 2018, before declining in 2019 and 2020. With 45,979 fatalities in 2020, suicide will be the leading cause of death in the United States. This works out to about one death every 11 minutes. 3 The number of people who think about or attempt suicide is far higher. In 2020, it was estimated that 12.2 million Americans had seriously pondered suicide, 3.2 million had planned a suicide attempt, and 1.2 million had attempted suicide.
Though not all mental health issues may lead to suicide, it's destructive. If these problems are not addressed, they can become out of hand.
If you are worried, you should be. It's not going to get better unless we make the changes now. Nevertheless, you can make a difference. You've already taken the first step by understanding what mental health awareness month represents.
How You Can Make a Difference
Whether you are a home health aide, a nursing assistant, or a professional in another field, you have the power to make a difference.
You can make a difference in many ways. You can spread the message and check in on those around you. Health Care professionals play a vital role in mental health awareness too. They are the front line of battling serious mental health conditions. You'd be surprised how a small act of kindness goes a long way.
There are people out there who desperately need help. However, sometimes that help isn't accessible. Unfortunately, there is a shortage in the health care industry. People are needed in health care because they can provide the care that is required.
Final Thoughts
Mental health awareness is about making a change and removing the stigma of seeking help. You can make a difference whether your a health care professional or not. It's never too late.
While a person's condition is serious, a combination of the following things may help them realize that help is available. This is critical because people with mental illnesses are more likely than the general population to develop other chronic medical conditions and die younger, often from preventable causes.
Seeking therapy is often the first step toward a better life. It starts with awareness and recovery is guided with the help of health care professionals.
Whether you realize it or not, your mental health has a big impact on your overall well-being. When you're mentally well, you can enjoy your life and the people in it.
When you're mentally healthy, you may feel good about yourself, establish solid relationships, and handle stress. It's typical for your mental health to change over time because we all face problems.
Are you ready to make a difference?