Reps. Chris Stewart (R-UT) and Grace Napolitano (D-CA) introduced a bipartisan resolution to recognize the month of May as National Mental Health Awareness Month. Reps. Stewart and Napolitano serve as Co-chairs of the bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, and their resolution was signed by 71 of their congressional colleagues.
“Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity that America can’t afford to miss,” said Rep. Stewart. “We’re in the middle of an unprecedented mental health crisis, and it’s necessary that we elevate the conversation around this all-important issue. We can end the stigma of mental health, improve critical resources for those in need, and find bipartisan solutions – the Mental Health Caucus is proof of our progress. But the fight is far from over, and we can only hope for a healthier nation if we all do our collective duty to raise awareness.”
“Mental Health Awareness Month is a critical time to continue our work to increase funding for life-saving mental health services, to raise public awareness, and to encourage all those in need to seek help. As the COVID-19 pandemic has upended our lives and added additional stressors that have significantly strained our mental health and well-being, we continue to see a rise in reports of loneliness, stress, anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide. We must all do our part in spreading hope, reducing stigma, and a sending a clear message that it is always okay to ask for help,” Napolitano said. “This month and every month, I encourage all to get involved, educate themselves, and share resources with friends, colleagues, and family. I thank my co-chair, Congressman Stewart, and all of our colleagues for supporting this resolution to elevate the issue of mental health in the halls of Congress and across our districts.”
Since 1949, the month of May has been observed as National Mental Health Awareness Month. Unfortunately, due to the stigma associated with mental illness, many people are too ashamed or embarrassed to seek the necessary help for themselves or their loved ones. National Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to break through that stigma. So, this month and every month, let’s work to raise the awareness of this issue and help all Americans struggling with mental health challenges.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, feeling at risk of suicide, or experiencing a state of distress, it is crucial to find help immediately. There are many resources available, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline which provides free, confidential support 24/7, and the Crisis Text Line which offers free crisis counseling 24/7. Dial 988 or text HOME to 741741 to connect with these services.
