Video Message From The Assistant Secretary For Mental Health And Substance Use
Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D., Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, has recorded a video message for Older Adults Mental Health Day.
Need Help?
If you need suicide or mental health-related crisis support, or are worried about someone else, please visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call or text or chat 988lifeline.org , or use the Behavioral Health Treatment Locator to get help.
Mental Health Facts You Should Know
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. In an effort to clear up common misconceptions and promote increased awareness, we present 15 important facts about mental health.
Millions of Americans quietly battle mental health issues each year. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to destigmatize this condition by encouraging open conversations as well as developing and implementing effective methods for treatment.
We hope that these 15 facts about mental health will encourage you to discuss these issues with those you care about.
One in five Americans has experienced some form of mental illness, with one in 25 experiencing serious mental illness, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Suicide accounts for over 800,000 deaths globally each year, with over 41,000 in the U.S. alone. It is the second leading cause of death worldwide for 15-29 year olds.
The rate of mental health disorders doubles for those who have been to war or lived through a major disaster.
People with a mental health issue are generally nonviolent. In fact, only 3-5% of violent acts can be attributed to people with a serious mental illness.
Many factors can lead to mental illness, including genetics, physical illness or injury, and traumatic life experiences.
Many people do not seek treatment for mental illness due to the associated stigma. Only 44% of adults with diagnosable mental illnesses receive treatment.
Each year, serious mental illnesses cost the U.S. almost $200 billion in lost earnings.
Lee Health Behavioral Health
Lee Healths trained and compassionate experts are here for you. Our psychiatrists, licensed clinical social workers, advanced registered nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and other clinical support resources work with patients and family members to develop a therapy program that supports a return to a full, productive life as quickly as possible.
We can help address mental health issues through medication management, individual therapy, group therapy, case management, and more in an outpatient setting.
But even more importantly, according to Paul Simeone, Ph.D., Vice President and Medical Director of Behavioral Health, community members need to understand that mental illness is not something we can overcome with willpower.
Nor does it mean were moral failures. Biological factors such as genes or brain chemistry, trauma and abuse, and family history of mental illness can cause mental illness, Simeone wrote in a previous mental health article.
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What Can You Do To Raise Awareness For Mental Health
There are many opportunities for fundraising, community outreach, and awareness events during Mental Health Awareness Month. Many national organizations like Mental Health America , National Alliance on Mental Illness , and the National Institute of Mental Health hold events and fundraisers. NAMIWalks is a national event where people come together to walk, promote awareness and raise funds. MHA provides a campaign called Tools 2 Thrive, which provides education on mental health conditions and tools and tips for people to improve their mental health. Contact your local mental health organization to see how you can get involved or volunteer. They may have their own awareness event or fundraisers as well.
If there is someone in your life struggling with their mental health, the best thing you can do is reach out and start a conversation. Educate yourself on the realities of living with mental health issues and confront any feeling of stigma or judgment you may have. Just supporting those in your life can spread the message of awareness and acceptance.
Newport Hospital will be hosting a virtual community discussion about mental health on Tuesday, May 24. The discussion will feature panelists who bring different perspectives to this important discussion.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis or is in need of mental health services, we are here to help. Learn more about Lifespan Outpatient Psychiatry services.
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Youth And Mental Health
- Youth experience mental health conditions at roughly the same rate as adults: 1 in 5.
- 50% of all lifetime cases of mental health disorders appear by age 14, and 75% appear by the age of 24.
- After the onset of symptoms of a mental health condition in youths, intervention usually follows only after a delay of 8-10 years, in which time the condition may interfere with important developmental needs, resulting in greater challenges later in life.
- Approximately 37% of youths with mental health conditions drop out of school before the age of 14.
- 70% of youth in the juvenile justice system have a diagnosable mental illness.
- Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death in the use for ages 10 to 24.
- In a five year period, the rate of youths with severe depression has risen from 5.9%-8.2%.
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Early Warning Signs Of Mental Illness
Each mental health condition has a unique set of symptoms. But many share similar signs, especially those that get in the way of your day-to-day life. Common early warning signs of mental illness can include:
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Worrying or feeling afraid more than usual
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Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the time
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Having trouble thinking, concentrating, or learning
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Noticing big mood shifts, from lows to highs or elation
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Avoiding friends, family, or social commitments
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Sleeping or eating more or less than usual
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Losing interest in activities you used to love
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Using substances, like drugs and alcohol, more often than usual
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Thinking about suicide or killing yourself
If youre worried about your child, you may want to pay attention to some less obvious signs theyre struggling with their mental health. Look for behaviors such as:
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Changes in school performance
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Frequent aggression or disobedience
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Regular temper tantrums
Recognizing the early signs of mental illness can help you get treatment sooner. Mental illness responds well to early intervention. For example, those who start schizophrenia treatment early after symptoms appear are often better able to manage their serious mental illness long-term.
Mental Health Awareness Month
Donate Today and Help Make an Impact
Nearly 450 million people worldwide are currently living with a mental illness, yet nearly two thirds of people with a known mental illness never seek treatment. ADAA is dedicated to helping those living with anxiety, depression, and co-occurring disorders and their loved ones find treatment, support, and resources.
Every May – for Mental Health Awareness Month – we encourage you to help us #breakthestigma associated with mental health disorders by making an impact and sharing your personal story to inspire those facing similar challenges. We invite you to listen to Antonio, Melissa and Kennedy’s stories and why they are sharing their stories and making an impact.
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What Is The Importance Of Mental Health Awareness Month
Whether or not someone personally suffers with a mental health issue, Mental Health Awareness Month helps people recognize the ways mental illness impacts their lives, educates people about available services, and highlights ways to advocate.
Recognition and education are important ways to remove the stigma associated with mental illness. Mental Health Awareness Month creates a time and space to start a conversation. Talking openly about mental health can reduce the misconceptions and stigma, and can encourage those who are suffering to seek help and find a support network.
It’s important for caregivers, friends, and loved ones to understand the impact that mental health has on daily life. Mental Health Awareness Month provides education about the reality of living with a mental health condition – while it can make life more difficult, it doesn’t have to stop someone from having a fulfilling life. When people are better educated on these conditions, they can better support and help someone dealing with a mental health issue.
Mental Health Awareness Month also provides an opportunity for fundraising, outreach, and awareness events. This, in turn, can help support research, fund treatment options, and connect advocates to create a brighter, more promising future of mental health care.
Can Your Mental Health Change Over Time
Yes, its important to remember that a persons mental health can change over time, depending on many factors. When the demands placed on a person exceed their resources and coping abilities, their mental health could be impacted. For example, if someone is working long hours, caring for a relative, or experiencing economic hardship, they may experience poor mental health.
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Reach Out And Come Together
Are you or a family member struggling? Remember, too, that your primary care physician or your childs pediatrician is a perfect place to start the conversation about stress levels and possible mental health issues. A medical expert can advise your next steps including a conversation with a behavioral health expert.
The fact that everyone is experiencing the exact same problem can offer positive benefits,
We know we are not alone on this one, Dr. Hidalgo said. The challenge can be that we are all struggling in one way or another and this can impact the amount of support one can get from others.
Brochures And Fact Sheets
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NIMH offers brochures and fact sheets on mental health disorders and related topics for patients and their families, health professionals, and the public. Printed materials can be ordered free of charge. Brochures and fact sheets are also offered in digital formats and are available in English and Spanish.
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Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
Tessa Chatham Registered Nurse
Tessa Chatham Registered Nurse
Tessa is a MSN prepared Registered Nurse with 10 years of critical care experience in healthcare. When not practicing clinical nursing, she enjoys academic writing and is passionate about helping those affected by medical aliments live healthy lives.
National Mental Health Awareness Month
May 20, 2021
” Mental health is essential to our overall health, and the importance of attending to mental health has become even more pronounced during the COVID19 pandemic, which has not only negatively impacted many people’s mental health but has also created barriers to treatment. Millions of adults and children across America experience mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Nearly one in five Americans lives with a mental health condition. Those living with mental health conditions are our family, friends, classmates, neighbors, and coworkers…. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, H.R. 1319, also included $420 million in funding to support Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics to expand access to high-quality, evidence-based behavioral health services. ” President Joseph Biden
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Mental Health Awareness Month Facts And Statistics
An estimated 53 million people in the United States live with a mental illness, which is about 21% of the adult population. Included in that is almost 6% of adults who experience serious mental illness. About 17% of youth ages 6 to 17 years old experience mental health issues.
Anxiety disorders are the most commonly diagnosed mental health condition, affecting about 18% of the population. Other common mental health conditions include:
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Eating disorders
More than half of people with a mental illness dont receive treatment, according to Mental Health America. And about 11% of those with a mental illness dont have health insurance.
Substance Use Disorder And Overdose Prevention
The crisis of opioid misuse, addiction, and overdose in the United States is a rapidly evolving and urgent public health emergency. Overdose deaths were rising prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, but in 2020 there was a 30% increase in overdose deaths, with nearly 92,000 overdose deaths. Provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that overdose have continued to increase, with more than 105,000 overdose deaths predicted in the 12 months ending November 2021.
The burden of overdose expands to other consequences of substance use disorders , including nonfatal overdose, and the human cost of this crisis also takes a heavy toll on families, caregivers, and communities. The HHS Overdose Prevention Strategy prioritizes four key target areasprimary prevention, harm reduction, evidence-based treatment, and recovery support. The HHS Overdose Prevention Strategy prioritizes four key target areasprimary prevention, harm reduction, evidence-based treatment, and recovery support.
What Weve AccomplishedAmerican Rescue Plan
Recent Actions to Expand Overdose Prevention and Access to Treatment
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How Are Minorities Affected By Mental Health
Minorities are affected by mental health the same as the non-minority populations, but the difference is that minority groups are less likely to seek treatment, and when they do get the treatment, it is not the best available treatment. This is even more challenging due to the minority communitys unique mental health challenges and needs. Some minorities have the added burdens of generational trauma, historical disenfranchisement, socioeconomic factors, and oppression of racial and ethnic groups, that reduce access.
Mental health conditions do not discriminate, and anyone can experience the challenges of mental health. However, being a minority in the mental healthcare system adds even more barriers to treatment. There are several roadblocks in place that make mental health services difficult to access among minority populations. Some barriers to mental health treatment include:
- Racism, bias, or discrimination in treatment settings
- Lower quality care/poverty
- Distrust in the healthcare system
- Lack of diversity among healthcare providers
- Lack of cultural competency among providers
- Uninsured or underinsured
- Missing work is not feasible to go to therapy sessions
- Stigma among peers and community members
Take Care Of Yourself: May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
Weve all been through a lot this year. And one issue that continues to make headlines? Our mental health. Specifically, the effect of COVID-19 and all that comes with it vaccinations, quarantining, working from home, disrupted schedules, lack of social interaction, and more.
Now is a good time to pause and reflect. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so we want to make sure we recognize a difficult truth: Nearly one in five Americans lives with a mental health condition, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
That includes any mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder such as:
- Mood disorders, including bipolar disorder
- Personality disorders
- Eating disorders
- Substance -use disorders
A recent statement by President Joe Biden on Mental Health Awareness Month mentions isolation, sickness, grief, and job loss as contributing factors on declining mental health as well as lack of access to mental health services during difficult times.
But its important to remember that you are not alone.
In fact, that is the theme of this years awareness month from the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Experts stress that now is the time to focus on healing, reaching out, and connecting in safe ways by acknowledging that its okay to not be okay.
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Teens Benefit From A Positive Adult Relationship In Their Lives
Adolescence is a stage in development marked by exploration, impulsiveness, taking risks, setting goals, and strengthening social ties with peers. However, just because the parental relationship is taking a back seat does not mean that teens do not benefit from positive relationships with adults in their lives, especially after the couple of years weve had.
COVID-19 proved to be a demanding pandemic for everyone, but teenagers faced more challenges than any age group. For example, when the shelter-in-place mandate went into effect, emergency room visits due to suspected suicide-related concerns among 12- to 17-year-olds grew by 39% compared to those in 2019.
Teen therapists at Pure Health Center provide individualized care for teens to teach them practical ways to manage stress. Moreover, they take the time to listen to and understand each teen, which is particularly important since these are the years when health behavior and habits are formed.
Support For Remote And Distance Learners
While most schools have returned to on-campus learning, there may still be periods of lockdown or students in quarantine. These resources can help improve mental wellness for students away from the classroom. Learn more.
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Facts About Mental Health And Mental Illness
- 1 in 5 American adults experience some form of mental illness.2
- 14.2 million American adults live with a serious mental illness.2
- Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in America18% of adults have an anxiety disorder.3
- Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.4
- 37% of the US population live in areas experiencing mental health professional shortages.5
- Global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25% during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic.6
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Observed since 1949, the event helps to promote mental health education and support, with the goal of decreasing the stigma that is so often associated with mental illness. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of Americans were experiencing stress, trauma, anxiety and heightened levels of depression. However, the pandemic exacerbated those conditions,
That is why it is still important to prioritize your mental wellbeing. Here are some ways that can help:
The pandemic was traumatic for everyone. Experiencing a mix of feelings and reactions is to be expected. So be kind to yourself and those around you. If youre concerned about your mental health, dont hesitate to seek advice. Consult your primary care doctor or make an appointment with a mental health professional.
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