Mental illness has an impact on every part of a person’s life and the lives of those they love. Each year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness takes the time to host Mental Health Awareness Month to help educate communities on mental health and mental illnesses. This period helps reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and assists people reach out when they need support. Please reach out to South Tampa Psychiatry today at 866.273.5017 if you need mental health treatment.
When Is Mental Health Awareness Month?
Mental Health Awareness Month is the month of May. Every year, NAMI joins a national movement with other local therapists, medical providers, and others. This month’s goal is to discuss mental health and the actions you can take to help yourself or those you love if they are struggling.
Every year, a primary goal is to educate the public about mental health, eliminate the stigma of speaking about mental health, and seeking support. This month also advocates for better policies to support those who are living with mental illness and their families.
In 2021, Mental Health Awareness Month has several important dates to remember. It comes with different events and advocacy events to help eliminate the stigma of speaking about mental health in America.
In 2021, Mental Health Awareness Month’s theme is “You Are Not Alone,” which is particularly important to remember due to the last year and the quarantines and stress that resulted. This May, remember that’s it is okay not to be okay, and it is okay to reach out for support.
Mental Health Awareness Month is something you can participate in at home and with your community. You have the option of joining in with dozens of activities, local events, testing, and other opportunities to fight the stigma and provide support to those who need it.
How Can You Participate In Mental Health Month?
If you want to participate in Mental Health Month, there are several ways you can do so. You can:
- Use the hashtags #MHAM and #NotAlone to share your story, graphics, images, and other information with your loved ones and community
- Visit NAMI’s website to read stories from those who have posted or post your own to share your history of mental illness.
- Go to NAMI’s social media to get helpful mental health facts, links, and resources.
- Share a video of what mental health means in your life.
You can also consider sending out a “mental health packet” to your coworkers or loved ones with information about mental illness, the signs, and how to seek help.
What Days Are Special In Mental Health Awareness Month?
During Mental Health Awareness Month, you can also take part in specific days recognizing mental health in different groups of people. Some important dates include:
- May 7: National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day
- May 9-15: Women’s Health Week
- May 13: Mental Health Day of Action
- May 22: NAMI Walks Your Way: A United Day of Hope
Most adults in America have either experienced mental illness or have someone they love who has. As a result, it’s essential to participate in these events to explore and understand this essential health topic.
Contact South Tampa Psychiatry for Help
Mental Health Awareness Month is the perfect time to reach out and discuss mental health with a provider that you or a loved one trusts. If you feel that you need to take the step to seek out addiction, mental health, or dual diagnosis treatment, we at South Tampa Psychiatry are here to help. South Tampa Psychiatry offers a range of additionals services, including:
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Depression treatment
- Anxiety treatment
- Bipolar disorder treatment
- PTSD treatment
To learn more about our services, please contact South Tampa Psychiatry today at 866.273.5017, or contact us online.