Banyan Treatment Center wants to recognize May as National Mental Health Awareness Month.
The tradition behind bringing awareness to mental health has been going on since 1949. The main goal of this awareness campaign is to break the stigma that surrounds mental health. A mental health disorder is not something to be ashamed of, but rather be addressed and treated to the best of one’s ability.
The statistics on mental health in America can be shocking to some. Did you know that 1 in 5 adults are diagnosed with a mental health disorder each year? That is 20% of the population.
When talking about the stigma surrounding mental health disorders, 25% of those living with a mental health disorder, feel judged or shame surrounding their issue. An even higher percentage of 56% go untreated for their mental health problems. These are both pretty sad statistics, and that is why Mental Health Awareness Month is such an important idea.
Bringing light to these statistics and issues can get the average individual more education when it comes to dealing with those who experience mental health disorders, whether that be in home life, work life, relationships or just normal society.
Worldwide, it is reported by the Huffington Post that there are over 300 million people who suffer from depression. It is common when thinking of mental illness we picture depression, but there are actually a number of different mental illnesses that are quite common. Bi-polar, anxiety and panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizophrenia, oppositional defiance disorder (ODD), and borderline personality disorder (BPD) are also fairly common mental health issues that have effects on 20% of America’s current population.
The breaking the stigma that surrounds having a mental health disorder is important. So many of those who suffer with mental illness are ashamed of their disorder and because of this, they are not seeking the proper treatment.
Self-medicating mental disorders with drugs and alcohol is also a large concern.
Out of those who struggle with a mental health disorder, it is stated that over 50% also struggle with substance abuse and dependence. People are more comfortable turning to substances than they are with receiving the proper medication from a doctor to cure their illness.
If you know someone struggling then reach out a helping hand, or a listening ear! Join in on the conversation and be educational to those who are unfamiliar with mental health and the issues that surround it. Share your experiences if they can be beneficial to others, and most of all, take care of yourself.
If you ever think you are struggling with mental health issues or know someone who is, give Banyan Treatment Center a call. Co-occurring disorders are easily treated with our truly customized treatment programs, these assure our clients receive the care they need for mental health disorders and substance addiction at the same time. Call us now at (888) 290-4763, we can help!
