May is Mental Health Month – Access Free Resources
Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will experience a diagnosable mental health condition this year?
We live in a rapidly changing world that can be complex to navigate. Many Americans can remember a time when we were not constantly connected, and it was easier to tune out the noise of the world. At the same time, the younger population can’t imagine life without the internet.
Modern life can significantly impact mental health — for better or for worse. The disturbing imagery in the media we are exposed to today can be deeply unsettling. At the same time, our current technology also allows us to mobilize and provide collective support more efficiently in times of natural disasters or injustice.
Ironically, while our devices make us more connected than ever, loneliness is an increasingly serious public health concern. We are now able to have conversations with friends and family on the other side of the world in real-time. However, the constant connection also means we know if we weren’t invited to a friend’s party down the street. Recent survey data show that more than half of U.S. adults (58%) are lonely. In addition, elected officials, city employees, and especially those who work in stressful jobs such as public safety and law enforcement are under constant scrutiny in public and online.
Finding a sense of calm and focusing on well-being can be daunting. It can be especially challenging to know where to start. Mental Health America offers a free toolkit for any organization to review and use.
As employers, cities can help raise awareness during May and throughout the year of the important role mental health plays in our lives. Leaders may want to check out MHA’s most recent “State of Mental Health in America” report to find out where all states rank. The report includes detailed data about suicidal thinking, depression, psychosis, and trauma across your state.
Cities can also create local proclamations recognizing May as Mental Health Month, and organizations can do simple things like raise awareness of Mental Health Month and wear green to support mental health awareness. By joining the “Be Seen in Green” challenge during Mental Health Month this May, you’re not just wearing a color; you’re shining a light of hope and support on mental health for millions.
This May, Mental Health of America- Kentucky suggests organizations focus their efforts on helping members of the community to:
- LEARN how modern life affects mental health with new resources to navigate our changing world.
- ACT by building a coping toolbox to manage stress, difficult emotions, and challenging situations.
- ADVOCATE to improve mental health for themselves, the ones they love, and their community.
Mental Health America of Kentucky offers Mental Health First Aid training for anyone who wants to become more educated about addressing situations. Mental health first aiders are a vital link between someone experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge and appropriate support.
Mental Health America of Kentucky provides full-day virtual and in-person Mental Health First Aid training, including for specific groups. For more information on any of the training modules, contact Mental Health America of Kentucky Executive Director Marcie Timmerman.
When more people are equipped with the tools they need to start a dialogue, more people can get the help they need.
