World Mental Health Day, as explained by the World Health Organization, "raises public awareness about mental health issues" and "promotes open discussion of mental disorders, and investments in prevention, promotion and treatment services."
While I do think that public awareness of mental health issues has increased over the years, and open discussion of mental disorders does happen more than it used to... there is still a stigma attached to mental illness, and it does sometimes make it difficult to talk about. It may not be as bad as it once was, but it's still there.
I have seen firsthand what happens when mental illness goes undiagnosed and untreated. All it does is cause more unnecessary suffering for people who are already living in enough pain. And it doesn't need to happen. We need to be able to talk openly about mental health issues without fear, and without shame. And we absolutely need to be comfortable seeking help when we need it.
I want to offer you a few mental health resources that I have found. If you or someone you love suffers from mental illness, I encourage you to explore some of the great information services and organizations that are out there. And if you have any concerns about your mental health (even if you've never been diagnosed), please, please talk to your doctor. Help is out there - you just have to take that first step.
Mental Health Resources:
- Phych Central's Mental Health & Psychology Resources Online
- MedlinePlus Mental Health page
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Mental Health page
- Mental Health America
- National Alliance on Mental Illness
a valuable service you have performed
ReplyDeleteROG, ABC Wednesday team
Thanks for reading!
DeleteSuch an important topic. I think every family has dealt with this in some form and we need to have an open understanding. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteAnn
Thank you, Ann. I hope it can be of help to the folks out there who need it.
DeleteWhat an awesome post - something to which I can personally relate. My late husband had severe mental illness and died by his own hand in 1992, and my younger daughter has bipolare, but doing very well on medication. Thanks for this wonderful service you have provided to readers.
ReplyDeleteLeslie
abcw team
Thank you, Leslie. I'm so sorry about the tragedy that you went through. I'm glad your daughter is doing well on her medication, and I'm glad that she has you to be a positive force in her life. Thank you for sharing your story!
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