Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. Here are a few statistics:
- Mental illness affects more than 50 million people in the U.S.
- In the U.S., 1 in 5 adults experience a mental health condition each year
- 17% of youth ages 6-17 experience a mental health condition
- 19% of U.S. adults – an estimated 48 million people – have an anxiety disorder
- The suicide rate has increased 35% since 1999
During May, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) joins the movement to raise awareness about mental health (#MHAM). With a growing number of Americans experiencing mental health symptoms, we need to join to advocate for improving our nation’s mental health and care system.
Each year NAMI continues to fight against the stigma surrounding mental health, actively provides support to those going through mental challenges, and helps to educate all on how to support people with mental illness and their families. As partners in the fight, together, we can help to create a nation where anyone affected by mental illness can get the appropriate support and quality of care to live healthy, fulfilling lives. “Together for Mental Health” (#Together4MH) we can help spread the word and in the movement for better mental health awareness and care.
For far too long, stigma and discrimination have silenced those living with mental health conditions. For those experiencing mental challenges or living with a mental health illness, it is important to know you are not alone! NAMI has provided a space for Personal Stories to help us learn and understand others’ mental health journey as well as provide a space for you to share. Sharing your story can be a therapeutic experience.
Visit nami.org to get connected and gain access to crisis resources.
ComPsych, the administrator for the System Office Employee Assistance Program (EAP), also offers many valuable resources to aid in understanding the importance mental health. If you need help, the EAP is available to provide confidential one-on-one counseling and resources designed to help you and your family deal with both personal and work-related concerns. A counselor is available to talk with you about your concerns and needs 24 hours a day by simply calling 877-823-5715. You can also visit www.GuidanceResources.com to connect with various articles and videos to help become better educated on understanding mental health.