May is a very popular month that’s jam packed with a variety of campaigns and events. One of the most important campaigns that takes place throughout the entire month of May is National Mental Health Awareness Month. The theme for this year is “Life with a Mental Illness”. With 1 in 5 adults and 49.5% of children suffering from a mental illness it is essential that this topic is being discussed. This is why the theme for this year is so important. Mental Health America wants people to share what their everyday life is like living with a mental illness. They’ve provided various outlets such as websites and hashtags (#mentallillnessfeelslike) that individuals can utilize to share their stories and experiences on.
It’s crucial that children with mental illnesses receive the proper attention that they need. 50% of students ages 14 and up that have a mental illness end up dropping out of high school. Each year, only 7.4% of children in the United States go to the doctor for mental health related visits each year. It’s up to both parents and educators to recognize the signs and symptoms of the possibility of a mental illness in children or coworkers and seek out help if needed. Living with a mental illness can affect ones health, well-being, academic and work performance, social life as well as relationships. Please visit Mental Health America’s website for more information on Mental Health Month as well as free resources that are available for use such as locating doctors in your area and support programs.
Guest Blogger: Janine Gordon, Intern, Johnson & Wales University
Sources: Mental Health America, National Alliance on Mental Illness
