Since 1949, May has been a month dedicated to increasing awareness of mental health and wellbeing in the U.S. Mental health is essential for an individual’s overall health. Both prevention and treatment for mental health illnesses is critical to supporting the health and wellbeing of all persons. Show your support for MHAM by wearing green!
Each week in May, SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) is focusing on the mental health of specific groups, listed below.
- May 1-4: Older Adults
- May 5-11: Children and Teens
- May 12-18: Pregnant and Postpartum People
- May 19-25: Racial and Ethnic Minority Groups
- May 26-31: LGBTQIA+ Communities
Here are some fast facts about mental health and youth, gathered from the National Alliance on Mental Health MHAM Toolkit – please note that some of these facts may discuss self-harm and suicide.
- 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
- 1 in 6 U.S. youth experience a mental health condition each year, and only half of them receive treatment.
- Suicide is the second leading cause of death for young people between 10 to 24
Resources:
- 988 Lifeline: 988
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP
- The Trevor Project: Call 1-866-488-7386 or Text 678-678
