Mental Health Month has been observed in the US since 1949 to share resources and reduce stigmas surrounding mental health conditions. Today, 1 in 5 Americans live with a mental health condition; however, stigma continues to cause “feelings of isolation, blame. . .bullying and even discrimination. . .These feelings often impede individuals from reaching out and finding the support they need to cope with their mental health condition.”
Firstly, there are a few terms used interchangeably that need to be clarified: mental illness, mental disorder, mental health condition, and mental health. “Mental health” refers to everybody – just like physical health, everyone’s mental health fluctuates based on circumstances that affect their mental wellbeing, just to a lesser extent and a shorter duration than a mental health condition. Regarding conditions, the most common term is mental illness, interspersed with “mental health disorder” and “mental health condition.” These are catch-all terms, not a diagnosis, and refer in general to “a health problem that significantly affects how a person feels, thinks, behaves, and interacts with other people. It is diagnosed according to standardized criteria.” Types of mental illness include depression disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar mood disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, personality disorders, and eating disorders. When discussing mental illness, use person-first language; for example, use “living with a mental illness,” or better yet, say the actual term for the individual’s mental health condition, and avoid saying “suffering” or “afflicted” as this contributes to stigmas and stereotypes.
Everyone has different experiences with their mental health; because mental health is not linear, some people may just have one episode after a particular event and not again, and some may last their whole lives to different severities. Dr. Christopher Palmer states that mental health disorders do not “define the entire person. Although their symptoms might impair their ability to do things others are able to do, they still have areas of strength and competence.” In fact, one incorrect assumption often made is that persons living with a mental health disorder “look” a certain way. The project Deconstructing Stigma specifically seeks to address this misconception and introduce a person-first view of mental illness.
Just like with physical health, mental illness symptoms don’t just go away by willing it — instead, “people with a mental illness need the same understanding and support given to people with a physical illness.” In 2021, the theme “Tools 2 Thrive” seeks to promote resiliency through sharing tools regarding medication, rehabilitation, and cognitive and behavioral psychological therapy. This month—and all year—learn using Mental Health Month tips and resources. Sign the stigma-free pledge and learn about how you can advocate for mental illness, such as contacting policymakers, voting, and sharing your story. Most importantly, if you need support but have not received it yet, take this opportunity to reach out to peer groups, therapy, and other resources.