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There more people impacted than what you think!

Everyone is impacted by mental illness in some way, whether they personally struggle or they know someone who does. A 2015 Study by the National Institute for Mental Health found that nearly 1 in 5 – 43.8 million – American adults suffer from a mental illness in any given year.

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Awareness should be increased!

Talking about mental illness can help those struggling realize they are not alone on their way to recovery and that they are not the only one who feels the way they do. For those who are not affected by mental illness firsthand, the conversation about mental illness can help inform them about risk factors, symptoms, treatment, and prevention methods, which will allow them to then help the people around them. This can make for a society that is more informed and accepting about mental illness.

The stigma can be eliminated!

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The stigma towards mental illness often causes people to feel isolated, stereotyped, shameful, or discriminated against, all of which can hinder recovery. By talking openly and showing there is more to someone than their mental illness, people can see that no one has to be defined by that alone.

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Treatment is Crucial

The combination of the above reasons may help someone realize that while what they’re experiencing is a serious issue, help is available. This is imperative because people who live with mental illness are more likely to develop other chronic medical conditions and die earlier than others, usually as a result of treatable conditions. Seeking out treatment can be the first step in improving the rest of life.