by Gina DeMent, Public Information Officer
Five County Mental Health Authority
With increasing economic troubles piled on to the stress of work and family demands, more and more Americans are suffering from mental illnesses.
National Mental Health Month was created to raise awareness about mental health conditions and the importance of mental wellness for all. At the end of 2008, 58% of Americans reported struggling in their lives. This represents an increase of more than 22 million Americans who reported struggling earlier in the year.
This year’s theme is focused on staying well. The tagline for this year’s observance is “Live Your Life Well”, a campaign to provide people with ten specific, research based tools that can combat stress and promote health and well-being. From relaxation techniques to journaling exercises to simple ways to get better sleep and improve eating habits, the ten tools offer a wide range of resources to build resiliency and well-being. To learn more about the tools go to www.mentalhealthamerica.net.
Mental illnesses are medical conditions that disrupt a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others, and daily functioning. Serious mental illnesses include major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and borderline personality disorder.
In 1999, the Surgeon General of the United States issued a report on mental health. His conclusion was that mental illnesses are real. Like diabetes or arthritis, mental illness is a chronic disease. Getting well is only the beginning of the challenge. Staying well is the real challenge. The good news about mental illness is that recovery is possible.
In the five county area, you can stay well with professional help from an array of community service providers who contract with the Five County Mental Health Authority to help citizens with mental health, developmental disability or substance abuse problems. Five County is committed to the behavioral health of our community.
During the month of May, many activities are being held to educate the community on behavioral health resources. For more information, please visit www.fivecountymha.org and click on May is Mental Health Awareness Month for more information.
If you feel overwhelmed, unable to cope, and feel as though your stress is affecting how you function every day, it could be depression or anxiety. Don’t let it go unchecked. If you or a family member need assistance with mental health, developmental disability or substance abuse concerns, contact our toll free 24 hour helpline at 1.877.619.3761.
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