Mental health, defined by the World Health Organization, is “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”
In 1949, Mental Health America (MHA), then known as the National Association for Mental Health, established the month of May as Mental Health Month to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness and to celebrate recovery from mental illness. The month is observed with media, local events, and a plethora of resources to assist those helping those in need and individuals seeking resources on their own.
Today, Mental Health America is a community-based non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and to promoting the overall mental health of all. The Mental Health America website is full of resources for mental health including webinars, research and reports, policy issues, MHA programs, a career center, and volunteer opportunities, checklists, interactive quizzes, and more!
The theme of this year’s Mental Health month is Tools 2 Thrive, providing practical tools that everyone can use to improve their mental health and increase their resiliency regardless of their personal situation.
The MHA Toolkit includes sample materials for communications and social media as well as printable handouts on the following topics:
- Adapting after trauma and stress
- Dealing with anger and frustration
- Getting out of thinking traps
- Processing big changes
- Taking time for yourself
- Radical acceptance
To receive the Mental Health Toolkit from MHA, enter your name, address, email, and organization HERE.
Also, download free Fact Sheets directly from the website. Available Fact Sheets are in English and Spanish and include:
- Accepting Reality
- Adapting After Trauma and Stress
- Dealing with Anger and Frustration
- Getting Out of Thinking Traps
- Processing Big Changes
- Taking Time For Yourself
To see the latest Quick Facts and Statistics About Mental Health.
To learn how YOU can contribute to the cause of Mental Health Awareness, check out Community Reach Center’s article on 8 Ways We Can Raise Community Awareness for Mental Health Month.
Wishing you a happy Mental Health Month! Spread the Awareness, Spread the Love. ❤️