May is Mental Health Awareness Month
Fact: One in five adults in the United States experiences a mental health condition in a given year.
Fact: Half of all lifetime mental health conditions begin by age 14.
Fact: Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.
These facts are sobering.
But here is another very important fact:
Mental health conditions are treatable!
Mental Health Awareness Month raises awareness about recognition, treatment and recovery, and how it can be far more successful. One of the largest hurdles to mental wellness is addressing the stigma surrounding mental health.
Stigma is when someone, or even you yourself, views you in a negative way because you have a mental health condition. It feels shameful and those suffering from mental illness seek isolation, not help. Learning how to cope with stigma is important for all of us, particularly when mental illness is associated with bullying. Studies show correlations between bullying and mental health issues for both the bully and the victim of bullying. Bullies may act from a place of low self-esteem, a history of abuse or trauma, or depression. Bullying victims experience fear, depression, shame, loneliness, guilt, anxiety, low self-esteem and in the worst cases, suicidal thoughts.
During Mental Health Awareness Month
Learn more about the mental health effects of bullying, access information & resources on bullying prevention and GET HELP. Our resources page has tons of numbers and websites to look into if you're looking for resources!
Recognize the Signs of Depression and
Support the One's You Love!
Read the STOMP Out Bullying
"Pillars of Mental Health Awareness Support Guide"
The STOMP Out Bullying™ HelpChat Line
You are not alone! We’re here to help!
The goal of the STOMP Out Bullying™ Live HelpChat Line is to help you reduce the stress, depression and fear you are feeling as a result of being bullied and to empower you to make healthy decisions.
Connect with trained volunteers who can help support you without judgment. Our counselors have been specially trained to assist kids and teens who are feeling distressed as a result of being bullied and to respond to all requests for emotional support.
2023 Mental Health America Toolkit
Download their Mental Health Month toolkit. Available in English and in Spanish.
Follow STOMP Out Bullying