Mental Illness Awareness Week shines a light on issues surrounding mental health. It is observed each year during the first full week of October. Society tends to focus on physical health and this week serves as a reminder that mental health is just as important as our physical health. Mental Illness Awareness Week is an opportunity to educate in order to provide an understanding of those who struggle with these battles daily. 

Millions of people live with a mental illness and it not only affects them but those around them. Mental Illness Awareness Week is run in collaboration with the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) The goals of NAMI are raising awareness, fighting discrimination and providing support through Mental Illness Awareness Week. This week includes activities such as health fairs, educational sessions, benefit runs and art/music events among other community events. Other campaigns in early October include World Mental Health Day, National Depression Screening Day, and National Day without Stigma. 

One of the biggest challenges in surrounding mental health is the stigma that still exists today. Oftentimes, mental health issues are misunderstood or mistaken for weakness which can make it challenging for individuals to seek help. By providing awareness and education, Mental Illness Awareness Week aims to prove these misconceptions wrong and encourage conversations surrounding mental health issues. 

Mental health issues are far reaching. Millions of people around the world face the daily burden of disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and many others. These conditions can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, and their impact extends far beyond the individual; they touch families, communities, and societies as a whole. One of the main goals of Mental Illness Awareness Week is to foster empathy and understanding. By sharing personal stories, experiences, and facts, we can help dispel myths and stereotypes. Mental health challenges are not a choice, and they cannot be solved by willpower alone. By raising awareness, we encourage compassion and support for those who need it most. 

During Mental Health Awareness Week advocates can emphasize the need for quality mental health services that are available to all as many times financial constraints, a shortage of mental health professionals and fear of discrimination can inhibit the access to treatment. 

Also, during this awareness week, communities come together to show solidarity and let those affected know that they are not alone as oftentimes mental health conditions can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. This week also can serve as an opportunity to educate individuals about warning signs and symptoms and encourage those to seek help as early intervention can be a game-changer in mental health. 

Breaking the silence is one of the most powerful ways to combat stigma surrounding mental health. While Mental Illness Awareness Week is an important time to shine a spotlight on mental health issues, the conversation must continue year-round. Mental health matters and together we can create a world where everyone has the support they need to thrive mentally and emotionally.