MENTAL ILLNESS IS HAVING A TREMENDOUS IMPACT on the wellbeing of our nation and community—and it’s the rare individual whose life is left completely untouched by mental- health issues. These statistics from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) tell the story:
• One in five US adults experience mental illness each year.
• One in 20 US adults experience serious mental illness each year.
• One in six US youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year.
• 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.
• Suicide is the second leading cause off death among people aged 10-14. Despite these concerning data points, Mental Health America (MHA) emphasizes that mentalhealth conditions, while common, are manageable and treatable. Furthermore, it’s important to understand that it’s never too soon to seek treatment for mental-health issues. In fact, getting help early might just save your life!
With May being designated Mental Health Awareness Month, there’s no time like the present to get help if you or someone you love is struggling with mental illness and/or considering suicide. Launched in 1949 by MHA (then known as the National Association for Mental Health), this annual observance was established to bring millions of Americans together in promoting mental health awareness, offering vital resources and education, and advocating for the mental health and well-being of everyone.