The State of Mental Health

The State of Mental Health

AllMinds, it’s May(!), which is Mental Health Awareness Month! In this edition of our newsletter, we’ll discuss the state of mental health, explore ways to break through mental health barriers, and travel deeper into the internal forest of personal mental wellness journeying.

According to Mental Health America, a community-based non-profit who does yearly research to examine and understand the state of mental health, 21% of adults reported living with a mental illness in 2023 (that’s around 50 million Americans!). Of those, 55% of those received no treatment. They also found that there are 350 individuals for every one mental health provider. In addition, 16% of youth (2.7 million kids) report suffering from at least one major depressive episode with 60% of them receiving no treatment. To see the full results of the 2023 study, check out https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2023-State-of-Mental-Health-in-America-Report.pdf

This study shows that people in America are struggling significantly. Between inflation, a tense political climate, global conflict, the steady rise of toxic social media use, and continued environmental concerns, the health and wellbeing of those living in the US steadily declines. To make matters worse, there are not nearly enough providers to compensate for the rise in mental illness across the states. It is more important than ever that people receive access to quality mental health information, products, and resources in order to navigate a terrain that is fraught with holes.

AllMinds Grow

Although the state of mental health is bleak, having a clear understanding of the current situation provides us with a direction to work in. As we continue to break the stigma that stops people from seeking help, provide quality information, talk about personal struggles, and lend supportive hands to those in need, mental illness in America can improve. This research helps to highlight that those struggling are not alone. There are many others out there who are also facing internal battles, fighting in inner wars that plagued by stealth attacks and guerilla tactics. Let’s use this knowledge to not only normalize mental health struggles, but also validate the pain and isolation that often accompanies it.   

AllMinds Understand

Whether you or someone you know is currently in the midst of battle with their mind, understanding the state of mental health puts into perspective where our society currently stands and where it can go if we do nothing to fix it. Use this knowledge to broaden your perspectives when someone cuts you off driving, to provide compassion when you feel wronged, and to lend a listening ear when you are able to do so. You never know the impact that could make on another’s life.

AllMinds Elevate

At this point, you may be asking yourself what to do with this (somewhat depressing) information. Lucky for you, it’s time for some tips!

Tip #1: Nurture Your Mental Gardens

Just like a garden requires care and attention to grow and flourish, so does your mental health. Tend to your mental garden by practicing intentional inner care, engaging in activities that bring you joy, and seeking support when you need it. Identify the boundaries of your garden and enforce them in order to create inner stability and resilience. Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, and reaching our is a sign of incredible strength.

Tip #2: Work to Break the Stigma

Stigma against mental health is one of the biggest barriers to seeking professional help, leaving people to suffer alone and in silence. Work to break the stigma against mental health by fostering open dialogues, educating yourself and others, and promoting acceptance and understanding at home, in your workplace, and anywhere else you may find yourself. Every honest and vulnerable conversation you have about mental health contributes to creating a more supportive and inclusive environment.

Tip #3: Listen to Your Body

Your body is constantly telling you about your inner landscape. Take moments throughout this month to really tune in and listen to what your body is telling you, then take action in accordance with what you hear. Maybe it’s time to slow down, rest, embrace creativity and play, or finally take the leap on your dream. Follow your intuition and see how your mental health is impacted when you pay attention to what your body might be screaming for.

Resources for Support

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, know that help is available. Reach out to mental health professionals, support groups, or trusted individuals in your life. Here are some helpful resources to explore:

  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): www.nami.org

  • Crisis Text Line: Text “HELLO” to 741741

  • Mental Health America: www.mmhanational.org

  • National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 988

Here are our reflection questions for the month: 

  • What is the current state of your mental health? How is this impacting the way you are showing up for yourself and those around with? What is one thing you can do this month to break the mental health stigma?

Together, we have the power to reshape the state of mental health and usher in a new era where everyone has access to quality care and loving support.

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