Active Steps To Promote Mental Health Awareness

Apr. 11

One (1) in five (5) people will experience mental illness in their lifetime (ACA, 2023). Yet, mental health and substance abuse are the least discussed regarding overall health and well-being. Individuals suffering from mental health issues often mask their symptoms for fear of judgment, mockery, rejection, and unsolicited advice. In the workplace, individuals may choose not to advocate for their mental well-being for fear of adverse actions against them by their employer. While many factors contribute to poor mental health outcomes, not getting help towards healing can be especially harmful. While we all face mental health challenges, you can take steps towards life satisfaction today.

What is Mental Health Awareness Month?

During the month of May, mental health organizations join in the national movement to fight against the stigma associated with mental health.

Ways You Can Support Mental Health Awareness

1. Use Mental Health Affirming Language – Instead of saying, “He/She is depressed," say, "He/She has depression.” Instead of saying, "He/She is bipolar," say, "He/She has bipolar disorder," or "I have noticed extreme fluctuations in your mood. What can I do to help?”

2. Take an Anonymous Mental Health Screening– In honor of mental health awareness month, #BeKindtoYourMind and take an anonymous and confidential online mental health screening at www.mhascreening.org.

3. Talk About It – If you or someone you know suffers from mental health or substance abuse issues, check up on them and be available to listen. Many support groups support mental health as well, which you can join. Suppose someone asks you how you are doing; respond honestly. If you ask someone how they are doing, and they respond, "Not so good," "sad," or "worried," this is your opportunity to be supportive and have open communication. Speaking openly is how we can break the stigma and emotionally connect.

4. Get Professional Help – Licensed professional counselors such as licensed mental health counselors (LMHC), licensed marriage and family counselors (LMFT), and registered mental health counselor interns (RMHC) are highly trained and compassionate professionals who are qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health and substance abuse disorders.

5. Mental Health Education and Resources – Knowledge is power. The more you know about mental health, the better you can support a friend or loved one and yourself. Below are credible sites that are made available on the American Counseling Association’s (2023) website:

Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA - The Anxiety and Depression Association of America focuses on anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive, and trauma-related disorders. This web page lists support groups in the United States and Canada.
Free Clinics and Community Health Centers- The Free Clinic Directory connects uninsured people with affordable and accessible health clinics in their area.
Mental Health America - Mental Health America addresses the needs of those living with mental illness and promotes the overall mental health of Americans.
National Eating Disorders Association - The National Eating Disorder Association’s interactive map helps people affected by eating disorders find treatment providers.
Military and Veteran Caregiver Network | American Red Cross - The Military and Veterans Caregiver Network offers peer-based support and services to connect caregivers to service members and veterans living with illnesses or injuries.
Online Support Community for Parents and Caregivers of Individuals with Substance Use Disorders - The Partnership for Drug-Free Kids provides a free online support community for parents and caregivers who may have children experimenting with or dependent on substances.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) - The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention works to understand and prevent suicide and to support those affected by suicide.

Final Thoughts

Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It impacts how we handle major life events, stress, and daily challenges. It affects us throughout the life span from early childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and older age. It also impacts our physical health and the health of our relationships. I hope this post helps you or someone you know overcome these challenges. If you'd like to learn more about mental health topics, contact me at connect@humanfreely.com.

Insight Corner

1. How does your depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation serve you?

2. How would your life be different if you had more control over depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, [fill in the blank]?

***Call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, or dial 911 if you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency.

References

American Counseling Association.(2023). Resources for counselors and clients. Retrieved from https://www.counseling.org/knowledge-center/mental-health-resources/resources-for-counselors-and-clients.

About the Author

Erica Krider, MA, is a dedicated mental health professional and the Founder & CEO of Human Freely® LLC. With a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University, West Palm Beach, FL, Erica is on her way to becoming a fully licensed counselor in Florida. She is also a Board Member for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (www.afsp.org). Passionate about faith, family, and fostering resilience, she empowers communities with hope and healing. Erica also hosts the popular podcast, Mental Health Insight with Erica Krider, where she shares valuable mental health resources and insights. Explore more about her work and find helpful resources at www.humanfreely.com.

Erica Krider