May is Mental Health Awareness Month!
Did you know that one in five Americans live with mental illness? Since 1949, May has been observed as Mental Health Awareness Month or Mental Health Month reaching millions of people in the USA through the media and local events. Each year, organizations around the country work together to raise awareness, provide support and fight the stigma of mental illness.
In 2018, NAMI is promoting the theme "CureStigma" throughout Mental Health Month.
What is Stigma?
stig·ma
stiɡmə/noun
1. A mark of disgrace associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person.
Stigma creates an environment of shame, fear and silence that prevents many people from seeking help and treatment. Discrimination against those living with mental illness is widespread and reaches into schools and institutions of learning, employment, housing, health care and media. It causes shame, prejudice and hopelessness. Stigma is also the largest obstacle recovery and treatment for people who live with a mental illness. That is why it is so important that we stop it!
The perception of mental illness won’t change unless we act to change it.
How Can We Change It?
You can make an impact on removing stigma by....
Making A Pledge
Refuse to perpetuate or tolerate stigma and commit to changing your language and attitude about people living with mental illness.
Taking A Stand
Ask others to stop promoting stigma and using hurtful language.
Educating Yourself
Learn about different mental illnesses and how to best support those who live with them.
Being An Ally
Show your support for the cause, your own mental health, and the mental health of those you know with an illness.
Being Fearless
Don't be afraid to speak up!
Ending The Silence
Don't let stigma stop your voice!
At Modern Therapy, we believe that mental healthcare should be more affordable, more convenient, and less stigmatized. In honor of mental health month, we are offering one week of free online therapy! Click here to join today (use promo code: May).