Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it’s something that many people don’t prioritize. In fact, a recent study showed that two-thirds of people with mental illnesses don’t receive care1.
When you’re experiencing mental health challenges, it can be easy to feel isolated and alone. This is why it’s crucial to surround yourself with positive, healthy people and make sure to take care of yourself.
Creating awareness is a great way to reduce stigma around mental illness and encourage people to seek help and support for themselves and their loved ones. Awareness efforts include challenging negative portrayals of mental illness in the media, educating others about the signs and symptoms of common mental health disorders (such as anxiety or depression), and promoting open discussions to reduce misconceptions and foster understanding and compassion.
For educators, integrating mental health into the curriculum is an important way to promote awareness. When students are taught how to recognize mental health issues, they’ll be more likely to seek help if they’re having a hard time and will have the resources they need to do so (like a trusted friend or counselor).
Aside from teaching children how to recognize warning signs of mental illness, educators can also host community wellness events and share tips for maintaining mental health (such as getting enough sleep, practicing mindfulness exercises, and doing acts of kindness). Educators can also create posters or distribute leaflets about different mental health disorders that promote self-care and remind individuals that they’re not alone.