Introduction

Since the pandemic, millions of individuals have felt increases in loneliness, isolation, fear, worry, and stress; including the large population who are battling mental illness [4]. However, now that COVID-19 has decreased in effect, the negative mental health effects from it haven't. With the global increases of individuals battling mental health, this Mental Health Awareness Month is more important than ever. Every year, the month of May is dedicated to raising awareness for mental health and showing support for those around us who may be struggling with their mental health [6]. Mental Health Awareness Month is also a time to break free from the stigmas that surround mental health. 

Closing

21% of adults in the U.S. are facing some form of mental illness [1], and 55% of those individuals have never received treatment for that mental illness [2]. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, this May is a time to change that; you are not alone. Some of the many resources available to help improve one’s mental health include: a range of professionals, such as therapists, clinicians, and psychiatrists, telehealth resources such as Adhere.ly, and therapeutic exercises. There are also activities that can be completed during one’s free time that will help promote a healthy mental health and improved mood [6]. These activities include journaling, meditating, going outside, and exercising. 

[1] State of Mental Health in America 2023. Mental Health America. November 29, 2022. https://mhanational.org/research-reports/state-mental-health-america-2023. 

[2] Warren D. The state of Mental Health in America 2023: Adult prevalence and access to care. NextStep Solutions. November 7, 2022. https://www.nssbehavioralhealth.com/nss-blog-the-state-of-mental-health-in-america-2023-adult-prevalence-and-access-to-care/#:~:text=Key%20Takeaways%20from%20the%202023%20Study&text=55%25%20of%20adults%20with%20a,as%20two%20or%20more%20races. 

[3] Duszynski-Goodman L. Mental Health Statistics. Forbes. April 28, 2023. https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/mental-health-statistics/. 

[4] Blog: Mental Health Month. ALBANY MED Health System Saratoga Hospital . May 4, 2023. https://www.saratogahospital.org/Blog/blog-mental-health-month. 

[5] May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Alliance of Channel Women. May 26, 2021. https://allianceofchannelwomen.org/blog/may-is-mental-health-awareness-month. 

[6] Mental Health Awareness Month: Infographic. Military Health System. https://health.mil/News/Gallery/Infographics/2023/04/17/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month-Infographic.