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In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, which occurs every May, INTEGRIS Health is shining a light on mental wellness, prevention and stigma reduction.

A mental illness is a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling, behavior or mood. These conditions deeply impact day-to-day living and may also affect the ability to relate to others. Mental illnesses can be acute or chronic and are diagnosable conditions that affect an individual’s emotional, psychological and social well-being, and often their behavior. The most common mental illness diagnoses include depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and mood or personality disorders, among others.

By the numbers:

• According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 58 million people experiences mental illness each year, yet less than half receive treatment.
• 8.3% of U.S. adults experience major depression, and anxiety disorders remain the most prevalent mental health issue, affecting 42.5 million Americans.
• Mental health challenges among youth are rising rapidly, with over 20% of adolescents aged 12 to 17 reporting a major depressive episode within the last year.
• Mental health disorders account for more disability than any other illness, including cancer and heart disease, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 
• Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death overall in the U.S., is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10 to 24 and the third for those aged 25 to 34.

These stats are more than numbers. They represent real people including friends, family, coworkers and classmates who need support. Mental Health Awareness Month helps remind us that mental health care should be just as easy to access as seeing a doctor when we’re physically sick.

Ending Stigma

Stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs and discriminatory behaviors directed toward individuals with mental health conditions and encompasses a range of harmful perceptions.

“Mental illness is common, treatable and nothing to be ashamed of,” says Brian Couey, Psy.D., executive director of Arcadia Trails INTEGRIS Health Center for Addiction Recovery. “Yet, stigma and silence keep far too many people from getting the help they need.”

Fortunately, we have the power to address and reduce stigma by having open conversations, educating ourselves and others, challenging misconceptions and promoting accurate information. Just like physical health, mental health should be discussed openly and without shame.

When to Seek Help

• If you have experienced changes to your thoughts, moods or body for two weeks or more that interfere with daily life, relationships or work, it may be time to seek professional help.
• If symptoms are persistent and difficult to control.
• If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
• If you're concerned about alcohol or drug use along with anxiety and/or depression. 

INTEGRIS Health provides a variety of mental health services for Oklahomans of all ages. Early diagnosis and appropriate services for children and families can make a big difference, as can improved access to providers and programs.

Anyone contemplating suicide or experiencing a mental health emergency can call 988, the state’s mental health hotline number. The helpline is the first step to a multi-level crisis response.