Mental Health Affects Everyone, it’s Not Discriminative

Mental Health has been front and center in the news lately. Looking back over the last several years there have been many “events” worldwide that have impacted mental health such as COVID-19 social distancing and resulting isolation, the Capitol building insurrection, the great Texas power failure, the Bootleg fire in Oregon, the extreme heatwave across the nation, the George Floyd case, mass public shootings the list could continue.

Additionally, children homeschooled by parents who are attempting to balance work or are suddenly out of work has become a recipe for mental health challenges.

Mental health affects us all regardless of your nationality, religion, age, ethnicity, gender identification, financial status and/or job title.

On a daily basis we need to bring focus and attention to our mental health and the mental health of our loved ones. Be aware when talking with someone of a change in conversation such as an usual negativity about their future, depression that lasts longer than normal, or isolating themselves without an explanation. If you suspect someone is going through a mental health crisis, ask the hard questions and, more importantly, listen. Suggest they reach out for professional or spiritual help if the situation doesn’t change.

Mental Health Facts & Figures

• 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year.

• 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year.

• 1 in 6 U.S. youth age 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year.

• 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.

• Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10-34.

For additional information go to: www.thenationalcouncil.org

Mental Health Awareness Month has been recognized in May since 1949. Let’s do more to normalize asking for help when needed and focusing on both our mental and physical health as much as needed to ensure meaningful and joyful lives.

Let’s all fight this fight together!