It is the time of the year to pay extra attention to mental health! National Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May since 1949 by Mental Health America. Why is this day so important for mental health? It ultimately serves as a way of spreading awareness around mental health issues and being more open about getting help and treatments.
It is integral to remember the importance of mental health every year, as we continue to live under stressful events. The pandemic took us by surprise and there are wars happening in various countries. As we walk to work each day, stress can get the best of us.
Mental health disorders come in many shapes and sizes. Some types of mental disorders include:
- Anxiety disorders: Anxiety disorders are more than temporary worry or fear. For people with an anxiety disorder, it does not go away and it can get worse over time. It can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork, and relationships.
- Depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders: These are common and serious medical illnesses that negatively affect how you feel, the way you think and how you act.
- Eating disorders: Eating disorders are abnormal eating habits that can threaten your health or even your life.
- Personality disorders: A type of mental disorder in which you have a rigid and unhealthy pattern of thinking, functioning and behaving.
- Posttraumatic stress disorder: This is a type of mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it.
- Psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia: severe mental disorders that cause abnormal thinking and perceptions.
If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental health disorder, it is a great time to lend a hand. Even if you are not an expert with their problems, you can help by listening and encouraging them to get help. .The National Alliance on Mental Illness NAMI has a HelpLine for people currently struggling with mental health 1-800-950-6264 or text NAMI to 741-741.
