May is Mental Health Awareness Month which means we should not only recognize that mental health issues are real and present struggles in many people’s lives but we should also work to better understand and communicate with those who suffer from them. Mental health disorders can take on a number of different forms in a person but the one thing that remains consistent is that person’s need for support and understanding from the people around them. Mental health affects every part of our lives so when someone is struggling with theirs it’s important to offer compassion. Options Family offers mental health treatment in Minnesota, to help you get back to a happy and healthy mental state.
Mental Health Awareness Month aims at doing just that, raising awareness and reducing the stigma that surrounds mental illness. Mental Health Awareness Month was started by the Mental Health America organization in 1949 as a way to spread the word about mental health issues. During the month of May, mental health organizations create outreach programs, conduct activities, and provide public education on the topic of mental illness. The purpose of these various forms of outreach is to educate the public about mental illness and teach people how to become better friends, family, and allies to sufferers of mental illness. Here are a few ways you can communicate with someone who suffers from a mental illness.
- Show your support. Prove to your friend or family member that you care about them and they are not alone in their struggle.
- Listen openly and without judgment. Let your friend or family member talk openly about their mental health. However, if any mention of suicide is made you should contact a professional right away to get help.
- Educate yourself. Research the specific mental illness that your friend/family member suffers from so you can better understand what they are going through.
- Encourage healthy behaviors. External forces, such as sleep, exercise, healthy eating, and positive social circles can be helpful in managing mental health. This also means encouraging them to seek mental health treatment in Minnesota if you believe they can benefit from it.
At Options Family & Behavior Services we work hard to help improve the lives of people who suffer from mental and chemical health problems. We provide comprehensive treatment programs that use a person-centered approach to understanding and treating each individual’s needs. If you or someone you love suffers from a mental health disorder find help at Options Family & Behavior Services. We offer a variety of mental health treatment in Minnesota programs tailored to your individual needs. Call us today to find out more.
