The Mental Health Stigma
During the month of May, we will observe Mental Health Month to raise awareness of mental illness. One in five adults in the United States lives with a mental health condition.
This year, we are launching a campaign that builds on the successful #StigmaFree and #BeTheOne initiatives that have positioned stigma as a “social virus” that is spreading across America. Stigma is a sign or sense of disgrace that sets someone apart from others. Navigating life with a mental health condition can be tough, and the isolation and blame that is often encouraged by stigma can create huge challenges to moving forward in one’s recovery journey.
“Stigma is dangerous for the millions of Americans affected by mental health conditions. It causes people to feel ashamed for something that is out of their control, prevents them from seeking help, and even takes lives,” said Sandra Soroka, ED of The Neighborhood Center. “Although stigma is real, we do have ways we can all help, and that is with compassion and understanding. We need to talk openly and raise our voices, so we can put an end to the fear and shame and eliminate stigma once and for all.”
This campaign incorporates a series of ads, PSA’s and increased social media presence including offering a Facebook live Q&A with a clinician from their behavioral health clinic. We will also be hosting a Mental Health Awareness Fair on Wednesday, May 22nd at their Utica location, 624 Elizabeth St and in Rome on Thursday, May 23rd at 199 W. Dominick St., both events will be from 3-7pm and are free and open to the public.
Key mental health statistics include:
• 1 in 5 adults in the United States lives with a mental health condition.
• 1 in 25 (10 million) adults in the United States live with a serious mental illness.
• 60 million people in the United States face the day-to-day reality of living with a mental illness.
• Half of all lifetime mental health conditions begin by age 14 and 75 percent by age 24, but early intervention programs can help.
