Every year millions of people in the United States must fight against the ramifications of mental health issues.

By raising awareness, people can better understand these conditions and therefore replacing stigma with hope. Mental health education and equality advocacy significantly helps those individuals suffering with mental health problems. Spread the word, share resources, and bring understanding to educate others. As each year passes, the awareness movement increases in participation and becomes stronger. Awareness on breaking the stigma on Mental Illness is the first step.

How to be an ADVOCATE:

For those of you who are currently dealing with signs or symptoms of a mental illness or have been diagnosed with a mental illness, I encourage you to speak out to educate your social circles, your family, friends, co-workers, and overall community. Share your experiences and point of view to raise awareness through social media. The more you help people get out of their ignorance, the more they will understand you rather than be feared by the mental illness. Explain your struggles, help others identify the signs and symptoms within themselves of mental illness, show them that they are not alone. Break negative misperceptions by pointing out the facts and pushing away the myths. In the clinical world, we use professional lingo to diagnose mental disorders, however the diagnostic manual is too generic. Many people can be diagnosed with the same exact disorder but they are different people, therefore each person will experience symptoms at separate levels and have varied treatment outcomes.

What is the IMPACT?

Mental illness causes significant trauma to brain functioning and interacts between genes and environments. Having a mental health impairment is not a choice. When comparing affected populations, there are similar ratings around the world, throughout every culture and socioeconomic levels. Statistics reveal that 1in 5 young people suffer from a mental illness, which is 20% of the U.S. population. However, the impact of mental illnesses is more than simply statistics, as it involves a person’s feelings and emotions. Mental disorders affect families, friends and communities, in which must be approached just as seriously as physical illnesses. Try to put yourself in the shoes of the person affected. Imagine the impact of all settings in your daily functioning, such as your work, school, and social life. Remain mindful of those struggling with emotional hardships and encourage them to access the help that they need.

Is there anything that would help you with your awareness efforts? Please contact me directly by phone or email. We can discuss your questions and provide you with resources that will enable you to continue helping with this awareness movement!

Additional Resources:

• Helpyourselfhelpothers.org
• Teenmentalhealth.org
• 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or info@nami.org: Monday – Friday, 10 am–6 pm, EST.

What To Do In An Emergency or Crisis:

If you or a loved one is in immediate danger calling 911 and talking with police may be necessary. It is important to notify the operator that it is a psychiatric emergency and ask for an officer trained in crisis intervention or trained to assist people experiencing a psychiatric emergency.

In A Crisis:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Call 800-273-TALK (8255)

To find out if you or a loved one is suffering from a Mental Illness call (760) 458-1600 or Book an Appointment TODAY for a Complimentary Session.