Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being. One in five American adults experiences a mental health condition each year and everyone faces challenges in life that can impact their mental health.
Despite its prevalence, mental health remains shrouded in stigma, preventing many people from seeking help. Early intervention and access to quality care are crucial for managing mental health conditions and improving quality of life.
Mental Health Awareness Month is observed every May in the United States and other parts of the world to raise awareness about mental health issues, promote good mental health practices, and reduce the stigma associated with mental health disorders. This month-long event is an opportunity to highlight the importance of mental well-being, educate the public on mental health conditions, and encourage those struggling to seek help.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, the global prevalence of anxiety and depression increased by 25%—and it has continued to climb. If you or someone you know needs support, consider the resources below.
Statistics to consider
- In 2019, just prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 19.86% of adults experienced a mental illness, equivalent to nearly 50 million Americans.
- *One year into the coronavirus pandemic, about a fifth of U.S. adults (21%) were experiencing high levels of psychological distress.
- The percentage of adults with a mental illness who report unmet need for treatment has increased every year since 2011.
- Over 60% of youth with major depression do not receive any mental health treatment.
- Over 2.5 million youth in the U.S. have severe depression, and multiracial youth are at greatest risk.
- Over half of adults with a mental illness do not receive treatment, totaling over 27 million adults in the U.S. who are going untreated.
Resources and Support
- My Mental Health. Do I Need Help?
- On the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) webpage find NIMH’s brochures and factsheets, which can also be ordered for free in bulk though the NIMH Information Center
- For shareable social media graphics and videos to share in your community or family, visit NIMH’s digital sharables portal.
- Check out NIMH’s Caring for Your Mental Health webpage
- Additionally, NIMH will be sending out a special Mental Health Month Discover NIMH issue in May. To receive a copy, subscribe to the newsletter.
Videos
- 10 Common Warning Signs of a Mental Health Condition
- Quick Ways to Manage Your Stress: Relax Yourself
- Guided Visualization: Dealing with Stress
- NIMH Expert Discusses Managing Stress and Anxiety (ASL interpreter)
Did you know…
Mental Health Awareness Month began in the United States in 1949 and was started by the Mental Health America (MHA) organization (then known as the National Association for Mental Health)
