OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to raise awareness and reduce the stigma surrounding the health condition.
Experts in the field say mental health is more complex than many people realize.
Many people think of the extreme when they think of someone suffering from a mental health condition. But for most people it’s not that intense. It’s the hustle and bustle of everyday life, issues such as lack of money or relationships, that make some days come to a complete stop. The stigma separating mental health from physical health makes some people hesitant to turn for help.
“They don’t have the same stigma related to taking a statin for heart issues or something to help with their diabetes management, but for some reason taking something to help them regulate their anxiety or stabilize their moods there’s a different perception of that,” said Stacy Ring, behavioral health education and training manager with Community Alliance.
Ring says that stigma is fading with the younger generation.
“They really do seem to be more proactive about it. They’re seeking treatment before it gets to a very, very overwhelming and distressing level to try to help themselves to function as best they can,” she said.
Kitty Mosley came to Community Alliance for help with anxiety. Now she’s helping others.
“I was fine physically but mentally stuff was going on. I was afraid to go outside,” she said.
“I used to be really shy with social anxiety thing. Now I’m helping out here as much as I can, facilitating classes if I’m needed. I’m out there helping and advocating for mental health,” Mosley said.
“The goal and the focus of mental health awareness month is to focus on the community-based services and the natural supports of healthy habits people can develop to maintain their mental health at a manageable level so they don’t need inpatient services,” Ring said.
Mosley hopes to raise awareness and let people know they don’t have to walk alone when dealing with their mental health issues.
“Somebody generally wants to hear you out. They want to help so why not get it. It’s just saying I need help,” she said.
Community Alliance is a nonprofit mental health agency helping individuals and families. More information on the services they provide is available at community-alliance.org.
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