Mental Health Foundation (MHF) is observing Mental Health Month this month in an effort to create awareness of mental health to reduce stigma and the importance of care.
The theme is “Stop the exclusion, dare to care - make it happen.” This theme was actually the first theme of the Foundation back in the day.
MHF will be holding several activities to commemorate Mental Health Month, but every individual in the society, can also mark the month in his or her own way.
MHF Information and Prevention Coordinator Danette McRae-Gumbs said members of the community, who are unable to attend any of MHF’s events, can play their role by talking about mental health and mental illness to those around them. Persons can also offer support and encouragement, and celebrate achievements with persons, who have suffered or are still suffering from a mental illness, as well as reflect on their own personal mental health and how they can better it.
Persons can also learn something new about mental health or mental illness. “You can do your own research at home. You would be surprised at how much of what you know about mental illness is actually a myth,” she says. “We hope that the population will have a better idea of MHF’s services,” she added.
MHF actually opened its doors in October of 2006, but decided to promote Mental Health Month in May for various reasons, one of which is that the Foundation believes this is a time of the year when it can better focus the community’s attention on mental illness.
To celebrate the month, MHF is hoping to secure sufficient finances and sponsors to host numerous events. An open house is scheduled for May 21, and the public is invited to attend.
McRae-Gumbs said the public should support these events to, amongst other things, learn more about the mental health services that MHF offers. “We currently run seven care packages and offer services that range from counselling and support to interventions and more.”
She shared a positive message for mental health patients as the month is celebrated. “Our message to clients is that of hope, encouragement and support,” she said. “One in every four persons around the world will suffer from mental ill health at some point in their lives due to a combination of environmental, psychological and genetic factors - so you are not alone. Share what you know of mental illness to those around you. Your personal story can help others know more about mental health and break the stigma and fear around it. To those who have recovered or are on the path to recovery, we say congratulations and keep moving forward.
“To those who are still in denial about their mental health problem or that of a loved one, take some time to consider the risks of delaying treatment, should the issue prove to be serious.”
