Back to Basics for Mental Health Awareness Month
Millions of Americans struggle with their mental health or have been affected by mental illness. During May, Mental Health America (MHA) is at the helm of Mental Health Awareness Month. The pandemic heightened isolation, unrest, and turmoil, so more Americans than ever experienced mental health struggles.
The 2022 theme for Mental Health Awareness Month is “Back to Basics.” The theme provides foundational information about mental health and mental illness treatment options when mental health is a concern.
We’re in this Together – Ways to Raise Mental Health Awareness
The last couple of years have demonstrated how we all struggle in challenging times, and everyone needs support to thrive. As we look for ways to raise mental health awareness, the message remains – mental health is a critical part of overall health. But there is still work to do to fight stigma, educate the public, provide support, and advocate for supportive policies.
Together, we move closer to our vision of a nation where everyone affected by mental illness receives appropriate support and care to live healthy, fulfilling lives.
History of Mental Health Awareness Month
Mental Health Month, or Mental Health Awareness Month, is not new. First observed in May of 1949 by presidential proclamation, the month is full of outreach and awareness activities. The MHA, its affiliates, and many other organizations decide how to raise mental health awareness through activities and campaigns such as:
- National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day
- Mental Illness Awareness Week
- Minority Mental Health Month
- National Depression Screening Day
Families often struggle when children move through adolescence. Teens deal with mental health issues, far too commonly. A family may end up in a crisis in need of healing for every family member.
What is essential to understand is that over the past 73 years, although progress has been made every year, there is much work yet to do to raise mental health awareness and reduce the stigma.
Types of Mental Illnesses
This year’s Mental Health Awareness Month theme is “Back to Basics.” The “Basics” include understanding some about the main types of mental illnesses. Some of the main types of mental disorders are:
- Personality Disorders
- Bipolar Disorder
- Major Depression
- Psychosis
- PTSD and Trauma
- Anxiety
- ADHD and Learning Disorders
- Oppositional Defiant Disorder
Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are deeply ingrained behavior patterns that deviate from the norms of generally acceptable behavior. These patterns cause long-term difficulties in relationships or function.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is experiencing everything to an extreme degree. For an example, it feels like the volume on the television is on full blast.
Major Depression
Major depression is characterized by a persistently depressed mood and long-term loss of interest. Often other symptoms add to a major depression like sleep problems, guilty feelings, or suicidal thoughts.
Psychosis
Psychosis is characterized by disconnecting from reality or losing contact with reality. A common realities are paranoid delusions and delusions of grandeur.
PTSD and Trauma
PTSD and Trauma symptoms occur for some people after they experience or witness a terrifying event. This is especially prevalent in military families, so TRICARE covers your treatment, no matter where you are in the world.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a symptom of a person’s mind in what therapist call anticipatory anxiety or a reflection of an unconscious problem the person is experiencing.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Learning Disorders
ADHD and learning difficulties are early symptoms that lead to negative self-views. Many studies conclude that children with ADHD develop depression, anxiety, or other disorders.
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
ODD is characterized by ongoing uncooperative, hostile, defiant, annoying behaviors toward parents and other authorities, severe enough to disrupt daily routines.
This list is not exhaustive, but it gives you an idea of why it is so important that we go “Back to Basics.” When people start to understand more about these issues, it is easier to understand why access to treatment is so critical.
Mental health problems can affect anyone, but they impact the LGBTQI+ community at much higher rates. People that are part of the LGBTQI+ community often experience social isolation, rejection, discrimination, homophobia, transphobia, or difficult experiences coming out that can impact their wellbeing or lead to depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts. Seeking treatment can provide critical and live-saving support for those of all ages.
Mental Health Awareness Month and Balance Treatment Center
We are pleased to support Mental Health Awareness Month here at Balance Treatment Center. With increased mental health awareness, we believe that Americans are more likely to support each other and seek treatment when necessary.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) looks to bring voices together for mental health advocacy and access to care. The blog, videos, personal stories, national events, and social media engagements bring NAMI to the forefront for Mental Health Awareness Month.
Also, throughout May, NAMI features stories from people as they experience life with their mental health conditions. Because sharing these lived experiences encourages others to prioritize mental health, this is one of the ways to increase awareness about mental illness.
For more information about how to raise mental health awareness, download the 2022 NAMI Awareness Event Guide. You can also join the movement to advocate for better mental health care by taking action as opportunities arise in your community.
At Balance Treatment Center, we believe that it is critical that we spread the word, so we are looking for ways to raise mental health awareness. As a mental health treatment center, we see the positive impact proper treatment can have on the lives of our patients and their families. Mental health concerns affect millions of Americans, and many feel isolated by their troubles.
For more Ways to Raise Awareness About Mental Health, CLICK HERE.
Mental Health Treatment Center
Not every mental health issue requires inpatient care in a mental health treatment center. You have support, and you can get help. Then you can find a mental health treatment program that will help you (or your loved one) move forward with your life. A simple search for “iop mental health facilities near me” could be life-changing!
Teens and adults need to be empowered, find their strengths, accept vulnerabilities, and develop the skills to care for their physical and mental health. Every member has a role in the wellbeing of the family.
From Balance Treatment Center in May for Mental Health Awareness
Balance Treatment Center is excited to announce that we are celebrating Mental Health Awareness Month with a! In honor of mental health awareness month, we’re excited to announce we’re expanding into the Fresno County and providing mental health treatment for kids aging 6-12.
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