Department of Mental Health Recognizes May as Mental Health Month

Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is May 8

 

The month of May is recognized each year as Mental Health Awareness Month – a time to promote awareness, understanding, and acceptance of the fact that our mental health is an essential part of our overall health and wellbeing.

 

With the national recognition of this month taking place around the country, the Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) is reminding our state residents that regardless of our age, background, or personal experiences, we strengthen ourselves, our families, and our communities when we prioritize and focus on our mental health.

 

“We say it all the time, and it’s because we want this message to really resonate with people, but good mental health and good physical health go hand-in-hand,” DMH Executive Director Wendy Bailey said. “No matter how old we are, no matter how young we are, or wherever we are in between, it’s so important to acknowledge our mental health and do whatever we can to support it in ourselves and our loved ones.”

 

In addition to the month-long recognition as May of Mental Health Month, Thursday, May 8 is recognized as Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. The first full week of the month, May 4-10, is also recognized as Children’s Mental Health Action Week by the National Federation of Families, a move beyond mere awareness and a call to take action by supporting others, practicing self-care, and recognizing that reaching out for help is important for everyone.

 

“At any age, we can have changes in our life that can impact our mental health. That could mean changes that older adults experience as they age, or it could be related to any of the many social pressures that we know younger people experience in school or from their peers,” Bailey said. “What’s most important is that people are encouraged to have open conversations know they should never hesitate to reach out for help when it’s needed.”

As Mississippi recognizes May as Mental Health Month, the Department of Mental Health encourages everyone to remember the following messages:

• Focusing on our mental health can enhance the quality of life by fostering independence and social connections.
• Teaching young people coping skills can empower them to properly manage their emotions and the many challenges they face.
• Having open conversations can help people of all ages develop resilience and feel comfortable and safe seeking help.
• Regular physical activity can help improve our mental health and enhance our well-being.
• Mental illness isn’t uncommon – millions of people live with serious mental illness, but recovery is possible, and people can thrive with proper treatment and support.
• Good nutrition, staying physically active, and making sure we get quality sleep can support both our mental and physical health.

Services and support are often just a phone call away. Call the DMH Helpline at 1-877-210-8513 for information about services near you or visit the Mental Health Mississippi web site at www.mentalhealthms.com to find providers throughout the state.