May is Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
April 30, 2015
Although the month of May was only officially proclaimed National Mental Health Awareness Month by President Obama in 2013, Mental Health Awareness Month has been unofficially observed in May since 1949. This is important because millions of Americans are estimated to suffer from mental health conditions each year. The existence of National Mental Health Awareness Month helps bring awareness not only to Americans, but to affected people all over the world.
Mental health issues affect 1 in 10 Americans today. These issues may not seem that common, but that is only because fewer than 25 percent of people with a diagnosable mental disorder actually seek treatment. It is our hope that, by bringing awareness to this issue, more people will talk to their doctor or mental health professional about their mental health concerns.
Mental illness is thought to be caused by genetics, neurochemistry, psychological, and social characteristics. Some of the illnesses of mental health include depression, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Those are just a few disorders among many mental health conditions. Although many of these conditions are caused by a complex set of factors, there are numerous treatment options available for those affected by mental illness.
Mental illness is often times misunderstood by society. However, it is no different than someone who is sick and seeking help from a doctor. There are professionals and treatments available to you. If you or anyone you know is affected by mental illness, you can contact Empire BlueCross BlueShield at (800) 553-9603 and obtain a listing of participating providers in your area who can assist you.
For additional resources on mental illness, please check out the links below.
