Mental Health Awareness Month has been recognized in the United States during the month of May.  Mental Health Awareness Month was started by the Mental Health America Organization and has been observed every year since 1949. 

The purpose of Mental Health Awareness Month is to help eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness by raising awareness of mental health conditions and the individuals who struggle with these conditions.

Each year approximately 51 million people experience some form of mental illness.

• One in five adults and one in six youth experience mental illness each year.

• Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness, effecting more than 19% of the adult population each year.

• It is estimated that only 45% of adults and 51% of children with a mental illness receive treatment.

HOW CAN YOU HELP SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

• Connect with friends, family and other individuals to talk about mental illness and the importance of ending the stigma.

• Learn more about mental health issues.

• Offer support to your loved ones when they open up about their struggles with mental illness.

• If you live with mental illness, sharing your story can be a powerful way to support others who may be experiencing a similar situation.