“Mental Health Awareness Month is so important because we’re trying to break and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health,” said Dr. Robyn Cotney with Piedmont Macon Behavioral Health.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Mental Health Awareness Month aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage people to seek help and support when they are struggling, according to a Macon behavioral health expert.
“Mental Health Awareness Month is so important because we’re trying to break and challenge the stigma surrounding mental health,” said Dr. Robyn Cotney with Piedmont Macon Behavioral Health.
Cotney says one in five people in America struggle with mental health conditions, but that number only reflects those who have been diagnosed and does not include people who may be suffering in silence.
According to Cotney, the 2026 Mental Health Awareness Month campaign was created by Mental Health America and is centered around the theme “More Good Days Together.” She says the campaign focuses on supporting communities, connecting people with resources and recognizing that a “good day” looks different for everyone.
Cotney says Piedmont Macon Behavioral Health offers four levels of psychiatric care and works to help people facing a variety of mental health challenges.
She says the biggest barrier preventing people from seeking help continues to be the stigma surrounding mental health.
“People should consider mental health the way they consider their physical health but that’s not something that’s been traditionally done in the past,” said Cotney.
Cotney encourages people who may be struggling with their mental health to reach out for help and utilize available support systems and resources.