October 6, 2014

Mental Illness Awareness Week 2014

Photo by Marcelo Matarazzo on Unsplash

This week, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) aims to raise awareness about mental health with Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 5^th – October 11^th).

Most of us automatically think of physical ailments when we hear the word “illness” – however, about 1 in 4 adults in the US suffer from some form of mental illness. Far too often, those with mental conditions suffer in silence.

This week is designated by NAMI to educate the public and reduce the stigma that surrounds mental illness, as well as to let those with mental conditions know that they don’t have to suffer alone. Last year, 50% of children ages 8-15 with a mental illness received no treatment at all. But this doesn’t need to be the case. There are treatment options available, and anyone with a mental health condition should not be ashamed to seek help. These issues are far more common than we are led to believe. With nearly 25% of American adults reporting mental health issues, we need to raise awareness and remove the stigma associated with these problems. With so many people suffering from mental health issues, it’s important that they do seek help and treatments.

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Whether it’s depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or any other type of mental illness, NAMI wants to let everyone know that recovery is possible and that we should not judge those who suffer from these conditions. According to the NAMI official website, “Mental illnesses can affect persons of any age, race, religion or income. Mental illnesses are not the result of personal weakness, lack of character or poor upbringing. Mental illnesses are treatable.”

If you or someone you care about is suffering from a mental illness, NAMI provides a great variety of resources to help:

The Information HelpLine is an information and referral service which can be reached by calling 800.950-NAMI Monday through Friday, 10 am- 6 pm (EST) or by email at [email protected].
NAMI’s Education, Training & Peer Support Center offers free education events and literature for peers, parents, individuals and the public about all things mental health. Check out their page for local events, information on how to help a loved one, and much more.
Join a discussion group to talk it out online with others who have shared your experience.
Want to tell your story? Click here to submit your personal experience in honor of Mental Illness Awareness Week 2014.