Matters of the Mind
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Established in 1949, it’s a pivotal time to spotlight the importance of mental health in connection with overall health and well-being. Mental health affects how we think, feel, and behave. It influences our choices and actions as well as how we cope with stress and build relationships. Awareness creates understanding and the more access to resources, the more people know, and the easier it is to dismantle preconceived beliefs and make care more accessible and commonplace which is crucial for individuals, families, and communities facing mental health challenges.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 59.3 million U.S. adults experienced a mental illness ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia in 2022 — about 23.1% of the adult population. Mental health conditions are widely prevalent across the nation, becoming more common in recent years, particularly with younger generations. Data indicates that nearly 50% of children aged 13 to 18 have a mental illness.
It’s also important to know that mental health challenges do not affect all populations equally. The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences reported that multiracial individuals have the highest reported instances of mental illness at 34.9%, followed by American Indian or Alaska Native individuals at 26.6%. These disparities emphasize the need for culturally competent mental health services and targeted interventions.
Despite the high prevalence of mental health conditions, access to care remains a significant hurdle due to cost, stigma, and availability — particularly in rural and offbeat communities. In 2024, as per the American Psychiatric Association, only 24% of adults reported speaking with a mental health professional in the past year, with younger adults aged 18 to 34 more likely to seek help compared to those 50 and older.
One of the biggest concerns about struggles with mental health are the suicidal thoughts that often accompany them. In their most recent statistics, the CDC reported that one person commits suicide every 11 minutes. Just another reason why there is such an urgent need for comprehensive mental health support across the nation and why creating awareness is so important.
Oftentimes, those experiencing mental health issues turn to substances as a way to cope which can exacerbate mental health symptoms. This bidirectional relationship can result in co-occurring disorders. The 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that approximately 20.4 million American adults experienced both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder in the previous year. This can be a complex challenge for healthcare providers and requires integrated treatment approaches that address both conditions simultaneously.
Mental Health Awareness Month is not only a time for reflection but also for action. Advocating for increased funding for mental health services, implementing policies that promote mental well-being, and fostering community support systems are vital steps toward addressing the mental health crisis. Additionally, integrating mental health education into schools, workplaces, and community programs can help minimize stereotypical assumptions about mental illness and encourage open conversations and understanding in an effort to create an environment where mental health is prioritized and supported.
By recognizing the signs of mental health struggles in ourselves and our loved ones, we can take the proper steps sooner rather than later, to generate hope and save lives. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression, our team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 800-604-2117. We are here to answer whatever questions you may have to help you navigate your path toward a brighter tomorrow.
