Millions of Americans are impacted by mental illness, either by living with a mental health condition or knowing a friend, family member or coworker who is struggling with their mental health. In Sacramento County, it is estimated that more than 300,000 residents live with a mental health condition, but less than half receive treatment or support for it.
In recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week (Oct. 3-9), a national observance sponsored by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Sacramento County’s “Mental Illness: It’s not always what you think” project is encouraging the community to stay connected with loved ones and raise awareness about this common and treatable illness.
Here are some resources and suggestions for you to get involved:
- Visit our website to view a list of resources, helplines, online communities and tips to continually support the mental and physical health of our communities.
- Check out the NAMI website to learn more about the “Together for Mental Health” campaign.
- Read the blog post from Stop Stigma Sacramento Speakers Bureau member Alan Candee about the importance of fighting for your mental and physical well-being.
- Try some of our conversation starters! Find ways to have a meaningful discussion with family, friends or neighbors about how their feeling – remind them they’re not alone.
- Learn some of the myths and misconceptions about mental illness and download the fact sheet. Research shows that the earlier a mental illness is identified and treated, the better the chances are for full recovery.
- Check out online resources from our friends at Each Mind Matters and Mental Health America for ways to improve mental health and increase resiliency.
- Check out the Sacramento chapter of NAMI website to stay up-to-date on local events
CONTACT INFO:
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT MENTAL ILLNESS AWARENESS WEEK OR THE “MENTAL ILLNESS: IT’S NOT ALWAYS WHAT YOU THINK” PROJECT, PLEASE CONTACT: INFO@STOPSTIGMASACRAMENTO.ORG.
