It’s May y’all! Here in the Derby city we’re picking horses, and trying to convince tourists that Mint Juleps are not good. But May is not just about the flowers and Derby festivities, or even the end of school for the year. May is Mental Health Awareness Month and this year organizations such as NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) are focusing on Curing the Stigma associated with Mental Health.

Here are some numbers from NAMI:

1 in 5 Americans will deal with mental illness in their lifetime

43.8 Million people deal with mental illness in the US every year

Only 41% of those people receive mental health serivces

1/2 of all mental illness start by age 14, 75% by age 24

These numbers tell a story. These numbers represent the people in our daily lives, their private struggles, and their fear of being considered “crazy” if people find out.

Understanding mental illness, as just that, an illness, can help those who need treatment. It can also help those family and friends understand what mental illness is, compared to a physical illness. While mental illness may not always be visible, it is equally important to take care of your mental health.

Understanding mental illness can also mean that those who have been avoiding treatment due to cost, can find resources and physicians to help get them the care they need.

It is important to take mental health seriously. No one should have to suffer simply because others do not understand. For more information on mental illness you can visit www.nami.org or for an appointment with PDCHC’s Behavioral Health Department please call 502-774-4401 Ext. 1224