A Time To Raise Awareness

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

A Time to Raise Awareness

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the impact of mental health on our lives. This month-long observance provides an opportunity to learn about the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, to reduce stigma, and to promote access to care.

History of Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month was first established in 1949 by the National Association for Mental Health (now Mental Health America). The goal of the month was to raise awareness about mental health and to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.

Objectives of Mental Health Awareness Month

The objectives of Mental Health Awareness Month are to:

• Increase awareness of the importance of mental health
• Reduce stigma associated with mental illness
• Promote access to mental health care
• Educate the public about mental health conditions
• Encourage people to seek help for mental health problems

Events of Mental Health Awareness Month

During Mental Health Awareness Month, there are a number of events that take place to raise awareness about mental health. These events include:

• Mental Health America's Annual Conference
• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)wareness Week
• The Jed Foundation's Half of Us Campaign
• The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's Out of the Darkness Walk