Since Mental Health America introduced the observance in the United States in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has drawn national attention to the struggles that the millions of Americans who have mental health issues confront on a daily basis. During Mental Health Awareness Month, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) “actively participates in this national movement, dedicated to eradicating stigma, extending support, fostering public education and advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness.” 

Other national organizations, such as Mental Health America and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) have prepared downloadable tool kits to help individuals, families and communities honor the observance. Some examples from the SAMHSA tool kit are included in this newsletter.

Let’s keep the observance going year-round!