May 2020 is Mental Health Awareness Month

Since 1949, the month of May has been observed in the United States as Mental Health Awareness Month. Reaching millions of people across America through educational and outreach efforts through media, local events, and screenings, Mental Health Awareness Month looks to end the stigma surrounding mental health and educate the public on mental illness and mental health issues.

Mental Health Awareness Month is an observance dedicated to the initiative that mental health is an issue that everyone should care about and be aware of so that they are aware of the struggles that many Americans face each day and every year. Mental health is an issue that 1 in 5 people will face during their lifetime. However, many more will face issues and challenges in life that can and will impact their mental health.

According to recent numbers, 5 percent of adults 18 or older experience a serious mental illness in any one year, which is equivalent to 43.8 million people. In the United States, 14.4% of adults have at least one disorder and 5.8% have two mental disorders. Additionally, 19.1% of adults in the United States experience any type of mental illness annually.

Mental health and mental illness impact millions of Americans each year, often resulting in substance use disorder, suicide, or disability. The impact of mental health on America also has far-reaching implications, including the impact on families, communities, the workplace, and the economy.

Mental health is something that everyone needs to be aware of, that they should feel no shame or stigma seeking help for, and that they should feel supported in attempting to manage or overcome. Each year, Mental Health Awareness Month attempts to bring this information to society, in order to lessen the current stigma of mental health and addiction and make sure people are able to receive the help that they need in times of crisis.

If you or someone you know needs help for addiction or co-occurring disorder issues, please give us a call. Maryland Addiction Recovery Center offers the most comprehensive dual diagnosis addiction treatment in the Mid-Atlantic area. If we aren’t the best fit for you or your loved one, we will take the necessary time to work with you to find a treatment center or provider that better fits your needs. Please give us a call at (410) 773-0500 or email our team at info@marylandaddictionrecovery.com. For more information on all of our drug addiction, alcohol addiction and co-occurring disorder services and recovery resources, please visit our web site at www.marylandaddictionrecovery.com.