Each year, millions of people must face the reality that they or someone they love has a mental health disorder. This realization comes with societal stigmas and very little awareness of what this means. That is why organizations participate in annual Mental Health Month programs.

During the month of May, organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Health host various activities to support, educate and advocate for what it really means to get help. These organizations seek to change lives by improving access to professional treatment at a mental health facility or dual diagnosis treatment center.

What is Mental Health Month?

This annual observance has been around since 1949. Putting the spotlight on mental health raises awareness about the importance of treatment. As the public understands mental health is just as important as physical health, more people will get the care they need.

Changing public perception also encourages more people to get involved with promoting overall mental health. They recognize that mental illness is not a punishment or a choice. This means more people struggling with addiction may begin to understand how mental health intertwines with addiction. Dual diagnosis describes when an individual suffers from an addiction and a mental health disorder.

Additionally, public policy can change to support people struggling with a mental illness. Help becomes available for their loved ones who may also suffer in silence. The role of family therapy and counseling is vital in successfully treating mental health disorders.

Mental Health Month Seeks to Erase the Stigma

Unfortunately, most people struggling with mental health conditions face negative responses from the public. Some live through bullying, rejection, and discrimination, which makes the journey more difficult.

Others judge them without fully understanding their condition. Consequently, isolation, blame, and secrecy prevent them from seeking treatment. The consequences of not getting the necessary treatment can be severe.

A month devoted to educating the public helps to erase this stigma. Not only is treatment vital for people and their families, but society at large also benefits. People may end up in prison or homeless shelters. They may even suffer through victimization and abuse by others.

Mental Health Month Raises Awareness

Devoting a month to this cause raises awareness that lasts long after May. It can inspire others to share information and resources about mental health conditions.

Although the general perception of mental illness has improved, more is still necessary to change the mindsets and stigmas that prevent some people from getting treatment. Additionally, the stigma affects the number of resources available when someone does look for help.

Increasing awareness about the importance of good mental health encourages people to know they can get better. The sooner this happens, the sooner they are likely to connect with a quality treatment center.

Get the Help You Need Today

At Pillars Recovery, every month is mental health month. Rarely does an addiction to drugs or alcohol occur without the presence of another disorder. We take treatment two steps further with a triple diagnosis for chronic pain, addiction and mental illness. The professional staff at our addiction treatment programs are standing by to help you.

Our treatment facility provides individualized care for your recovery, which includes:

If you are ready to defeat the illnesses of addiction and mental struggles, we are here to help. Contact us today at 866.782.0247 to receive quality care so you can have the life you deserve.