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A National Day to Address Mental Health Awareness

There are weeks, days, and months set aside for various different mental illnesses and different causes that have to do with mental health.



However, because there are so many different ones, the voices of those who have a mental illness and/or their supporters get lost.



If there is one day that is chosen to observe Mental Illness and Mental Health and it is shared nationally, hopefully more people would take notice of the changes that need to be made and how mental illness affects them.



It is important that people are educated so they can recognize when a loved one or neighbor might need help. They need to know what resources are available. They need to know what they can do if someone is a threat to themselves or others.



Those who think they might have a mental illness need to feel comfortable in getting help without being judged. The stigma related to mental illness in this country is beyond sad. If steps were taken to break the barriers of stigma, more people would seek treatment.



Educating and raising awareness to mental health issues could save money by:

Reducing ER visits by providing help to the mentally ill before they get too sick

People who have mental illnesses without proper treatment often times resort to alcohol, drugs, or misdemeanors. Because of this the court system is inundated and the jails are overcrowded.



This would be a huge step in trying to change the mental healthcare system. It can be done without money even being involved. A town in NC, as part of Mental Illness Awareness Week in 2013 held an event that had over 40 exhibitors from various different organizations that dealt with mental health. It was a free community event with entertainment, raffles, games, speakers, and food all donated. It was aimed at educating those in their community about mental illness. embracelifeday.wordpress.com



The media and various communities need to focus one day on explaining what the different illnesses are, what to do if you suspect you or a loved one has a mental illness, where the resources are and that there is nothing to be ashamed of if you do have a mental illness.



Communities throughout the United States can do the same thing. The 2nd Saturday of October is a great day as it is the end of Mental Illness Awareness Week.



Big or small, do something in your community that day to raise awareness and encourage your media to do recognize it.