By Erin Massey, LCSW
It’s May, and that means it’s Mental Health Awareness Month! You may not know it, but this month of May dedicated to mental health has been established since 1949, and has always sustained a goal of working towards bringing mental health awareness to the public, as well as working towards breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. The Theme for 2022 Mental Health Awareness month is “Together for Mental Health,” and the vision for this is “a nation where anyone affected by mental illness can get the appropriate support and quality of care to live healthy, fulfilling lives.” The purpose being to increase awareness in regards to the importance of mental health being equally as important as physical health, as well as celebrating recovery for mental illness.

Mental Health conditions are extremely common, and it is important to increase communication about mental health needs in our communities and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Some important themes to understand in regards to Mental Health Awareness include breaking stigma surrounding mental health, and can also involve advocating for the mental healthcare system to make changes and improve in the United States. Living in a rural area can pose some barriers when trying to access mental health services. Though there may not be a lot of local resources available, crisis lines and online groups and information can provide support as well.

During Mental Health Awareness Month it is also a good opportunity to do some self- reflection in regards to the need for us to manage our own mental health, and to check in and make sure we’re taking care of ourselves. If you or someone you know is in need of mental health services, you can contact Clearwater Valley Health, Orofino Clinic at 208-476-5777 to find out about available resources, as well as looking online to see what’s out there.