Mental Health Awareness Month: Overcoming Stigma
Since 1949, May has been acknowledged as Mental Health Awareness Month here in the United States. During this time we are reminded of the importance of caring for our mental and emotional well-being while also being cognizant of the challenges that others may be facing with their own mental health. Therapists, psychologists, doctors, life coaches and the like are all dedicated to educating the public about mental health conditions, encouraging early interventions, providing support to those in need, and most importantly, challenging the stigma that still surrounds mental illness. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 53.9 million adults in the United States (23%) have experienced some type of mental health illness in the past year. This includes conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, schizophrenia and substance abuse to name just a few. (NIMH Statistics) Mental health illnesses affect people of every background and walk of life yet so many continue to suffer in silence due to the fear of judgment or discrimination. It’s so important that we continue to to shine a light on Mental Health Awareness Month because the more awareness we can bring to people about mental health, the more people we can help.
Mental health stigma remains a major barrier to people seeking the help they need. It shows up in everyday conversations, workplaces and even within families often as judgment, silence, or dismissal. For example, someone struggling with anxiety might be told to “just calm down” or “stop overthinking,” as if their condition is simply a choice. A person with depression may face criticism for being "lazy" instead of being recognized as someone dealing with a serious illness. In many cultures, therapy is still seen as a sign of weakness and admitting to needing help can lead to social exclusion or shame. This stigma not only deepens emotional pain but can prevent individuals from accessing support, leading to worsening mental health and isolation. Perhaps most damaging of all is the stigma that individuals internalize, a belief that their mental health struggles make them less capable or less worthy than someone else. Breaking this cycle starts with open conversations, empathy, and normalizing mental health care as we do physical health care.
To create meaningful change in our society we must move beyond simply acknowledging mental health issues and instead, begin actively dismantling the stigma surrounding them. One of the most effective ways we can do this is through education. The more we open ourselves up to learning, understanding and sharing with others, the easier it becomes to dispel the myths surrounding mental health replacing them with knowledge and facts. We must make an effort to be more mindful of the language we use when speaking about mental health conditions. Referring to someone as “a person with depression” rather than “a depressed person” emphasizes their humanity rather than simply reducing them to a diagnosis. Equally important is the act of listening, really listening, when someone opens up about their experiences. In their moments of vulnerability the most powerful thing you can do is to show empathy without judgment and to refrain from offering unsolicited solutions. Oftentimes just being an attentive support system is the best thing you can do for someone who is suffering. We must also collectively advocate for mental health policies in schools, workplaces, and communities as they play a critical role in normalizing mental health care and ensuring that proper support systems are in place. Lastly, sharing our own personal stories can have a profound impact on others. When we open ourselves up to others, it not only makes us feel less alone in our struggles but it fosters a sense of connection and community that is crucial to our healing and thriving.
Mental Health Awareness Month is more than a campaign, it’s a movement that challenges us to be better allies, better listeners, and better advocates for both ourselves and others. It's a reminder that mental health is an essential part of our overall well-being and that we all deserve access to education, care, support, and understanding. By having honest conversations about mental health and treating people with the respect they deserve, we can slowly break the stigma and build a more compassionate and kind world in which we can all “Bounce Forward Happier”!
TAKEAWAY TIPS
Use Respectful, Person-First Language - Words matter. They can either empower or alienate.
Listen Without Judgment - When someone shares their mental health experiences, offer support without trying to fix them or diminish their feelings.
Educate Yourself and Others - Learning about mental health conditions and sharing that knowledge with others helps to debunk myths and foster acceptance.
Support Mental Health Policies - Advocate for accessible, affordable care and mental health education in schools, communities and in the workplace.
Be Open About Your Journey - Become comfortable with sharing your own story. You will feel less isolated while fostering a sense of connection and community with others.
**If you or someone you know is suffering with a mental health condition CLICK HERE for free resources from the NIMH.**
