MENTAL HEALTH: Combat the stigma, get involved

Throughout the month, NAMI will introduce several calls to action related to how people can feel empowered, combat stigma and get involved — ultimately sharing the message that all people, no matter where they are on their mental health journey, are deserving of support, resources, fulfillment and a community that cares.

Get involved

• NAMIWalks: Many virtual and in-person NAMIWalks will be taking place throughout the country during the month of May to help bring awareness and spread the message of Mental Health for All!

• Hold a virtual film watch party in your community: Host a TV show or film watch party about mental health and/or discussion group afterward.

• Host a book club: Coordinate a book selection about mental health with friends (such as “You Are Not Alone”

BY THE NUMBERS

by

Ken Duckworth; “Turtles All the Way Down” by Jon Green; “On Edge: A Journey Through Anxiety” by Andrea Petersen; “Crazy Is My Superpower” by AJ Mendez Brooks; “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine: A Novel” by Gail Honeyman; “The Lonely Century” by Noreena Hertz). Then host — virtually or in person — a conversation to talk about it. Consider inviting the author or a subject matter expert to moderate or ask for facilitation questions to help guide the discussion.

• Host a NAMI DIY Fundraiser: Plan an event like bowling or a bake sale, concert or gala; celebrate a milestone; remember a loved one’s legacy; undertake a physical challenge; or create something that’s perfect for your unique skills or interests to raise funds.

Be sure to visit nami. org/MentalHealthMonth for further details on activities and events.

1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year, and less than half of them receive treatment.

1 in 20 U.S. adults experience a serious mental illness each year, and less than two-thirds receive treatment.

1 in 6 U.S. youth experience a mental health condition each year, and only half of them receive treatment.

50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.

11 years is the average delay between onset of mental illness symptoms and treatment.

1 in 10 young people under age 18 experienced a mental health condition following a COVID-19 diagnosis.

77% of Americans say they are not content with the state of mental health treatment in this country.

65% of Americans are concerned about the stigma around mental illness.

Wynifred, also known as Winnie, is a young, 45-pound shepherd mix. One-year-old Winnie arrived at Ruff Start Rescue from a local shelter. She is a sweet, lovable, affectionate girl who has a lot of puppy energy. She is very playful, and would do well in a home with another dog companion. Winnie is social with other dogs and loves all of the people she meets, too.

Winnie is still working on her house training, but she is doing very well, according to her foster.

Winnie also continues to do well learning her basic commands.

She is treat-motivated, always ready to learn, and eager to please. Winnie is a young work in progress and can be trained to be a perfect partner and family member.

If you are interested in learning more about Wynifred or adopting her, please fill out an application at www.ruffstartrescue.org. Once your application is received, Ruff Start Rescue will contact you as soon as possible.