It’s estimated that more than one in five Americans – over 50 million people – will experience a mental illness in any given year. Of those, approximately 15.4 million adults are diagnosed with a serious mental illness, which may significantly disrupt their lives. Even if it doesn’t touch you personally, chances are that someone you know is living with a mental illness. It may be a parent, a child, a friend or coworker, a next-door neighbor, or the guy you see at the bank every Tuesday. Despite the high prevalence, mental illnesses are often ignored or minimized. Helping people recognize warning signs and understand the effects of mental illnesses is essential to improving support for those who struggle.
For the past several decades, May has been designated as Mental Health Awareness Month. Beginning in 1949, this annual observance was founded by Mental Health American, America’s longest-running national mental health organization. At the time, mental health issues were often cloaked in shame and swept under the rug. Thankfully, we have come a long way from those dark days of fear and misinformation, but unfortunately, stigma still exists, leading many people to struggle alone, behind the scenes. With our cultural focus on independence and perseverance, people may feel pressured to just push through, ignore their pain, and suffer in silence. Unfortunately, ignoring the symptoms does not make illness disappear. In fact, it often makes things worse.
Mental Health Awareness Month seeks to reduce stigma, promote mental wellness, and encourage people to access resources when they need help. The theme for 2026 is More Good Days Together. According to North Country Community Mental Health, this theme is “designed to communicate that wellness is not achieved through a single change or action but rather, it’s built on intentional, consistent practices that can lead to more good days.” CEO Brian Babbitt stresses that mental health is essential to one’s overall wellbeing and that “mental illnesses are common and treatable.”
If you are feeling depressed, hopeless, overwhelmed, or unusually anxious, or if you are dealing with other mental health issues, reaching out is the first step on the road to recovery. Don’t hesitate to seek help, and if a loved one is facing these issues, encourage them to reach out. With the right support, people living with mental illness can and do thrive.
Below are a few links for resources in the Northern Michigan area:
Home - North Country Community Mental Health
Grand Traverse Mental Health Crisis and Access Center | Munson Healthcare
Here are a few national resources that provide statistics and information:
Mental Health Resources | Mental Health | CDC
Remember: Mental health matters. Take steps to stay well and encourage your loved ones to do the same!
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