Established in 1969, May is designated to be the month to raise awareness to those living with mental or behavioral health issues and to help reduce stigma so many experience. One in five people will experience mental illness over the course of their lifetime, facing challenges that can and will affect their mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of millions of Americans. Even before COVID-19, however, the increase of mental health awareness in our nation was on the rise. A study conducted in 2019 reported nearly 59 million Americans experienced a form of mental disease. A recent study performed by the Centers for Disease Control and prevention indicates that one in four reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder in February 2021, which is a significant increase from the year before. Youth mental health has also been worsening. Nearly 10 percent of America’s youth are reporting severe depression. Suicide is the tenth leading cause of the death in the United States, and it is the second leading cause for our Nation’s youth. Suicide rates are disproportionately high in black communities and for those who identify as LGBTQI+. People who identify as LGBTQI+ are at a greater risk of death by suicide and have a higher rate of suicide planning or attempts.

If you are experiencing any thoughts about hurting yourself, immediate assistance is available to help. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or call 1-800-662-HELP.