Mental Health Awareness : Why We Need to Talk About It More

Mental Health Awareness is crucial in today’s world. With the current stressful lifestyle and the ongoing pandemic, mental health has become even more important. National Mental Health Awareness Month occurs during May every year.  This month aims to raise awareness and educate people about mental health issues, the importance of seeking help, and breaking the social stigma. Organizations arrange various events and activities to encourage people to come forward and talk about their struggles. Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that mental health is just as important as physical health, and we should prioritize self-care and well-being.

According to the National Institute for Mental Health, it is estimated that 23%, or roughly 1 in 5 adults, will experience a mental health issue in a given year. Approximately, 5.5% of adults, or 1 in 25, suffer from a serious or debilitating mental health issue that likely causes substantial burden. That means that it’s likely someone you know is struggling with their mental health, even if they haven’t told you. That’s why it’s so important to spread awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding it.

Some of the most prevalent mental health issues experienced among adults in the United States are depressive disorders and anxiety disorders. It is estimated that 21 million people (about 8.5% of the U.S. population) have suffered from a major depressive episode in their lifetime. Just over 19 % of American adults have suffered from an anxiety disorder in the past year, while almost 1/3 of the population has experienced an anxiety disorder in their lifetime. Though these two clusters of mental health disorders are the most common, they can have profound impacts on day to day lives. With treatment, it is possible to alleviate or cause a complete remission of symptoms. Treatment comes in a variety of forms including medications, therapy, treatment programs, and hospitalization. New treatments are being developed or approved yearly, including cutting edge technology such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

This month, Excel Psychiatry is committed to sharing resources on how to support those with mental health issues and advocating for better access to mental health care. Let’s all do our part in raising awareness and promoting understanding during Mental Health Awareness Month. If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental health disorder, contact Excel Psychiatry today. You can call 469-965-9799 or use our online booking button above. We have several treatment specialists with a variety of backgrounds and over 20 years of combined experience. We are dedicated to helping those in need with their mental health journey.