
Some of the many potential reasons that people do not seek care include stigma, lack of awareness of warning signs of mental health conditions, and a lack of available resources. To recognize this important month, you might participate in a variety of events, reach out to a friend, or take care of yourself in new ways. In addition, you can raise awareness by celebrating National Recovery Month in September too.
See below for ideas on how to do so.
Educate yourself on mental health topics
Since many of us weren’t taught about mental and behavioral health or self-care growing up, it can be helpful to take the time to learn about these topics now. For example, you might take the time to learn about common mental health conditions and their warning signs, ways you can incorporate self-care into your routine, or how to help a loved one who is experiencing a mental illness. If you’re unsure of where to begin, you might start with some of the following reputable sources:
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA), an organization that also helps native Hawaiians
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
National Council for Mental Wellbeing (NCMW)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
World Health Organization (WHO), which offers plentiful information about subjects pertaining to mental health and substance use
American Psychological Association (APA)
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) or it's one of its agencies (like the Indian Health Service, which assists native and tribal communities)
If you are currently in crisis, you can also use resources like the 988 Crisis Lifeline. This line can be reached 24/7 by dialing 988, and provide you support in times of emotional distress.
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