In May, we celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month. The observance began in — hold onto your hats — 1949! While that makes it 75 years old, many people and organizations might just be recognizing it for the first time. That’s an important step to take, because healthy employees are productive and happy, and mental health matters.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that one in five adults will experience a mental health challenge each year, but only half of that group will receive treatment. Support for mental health in the workplace can help change our culture — so that more people who need it will get treatment and live happy and healthy lives. Not only that, but when people feel their best, they can also help support others around them.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) website has a celebratory page that provides ideas, information and resources related to Mental Health Awareness Month, as well as a digital toolkit. NAMI also offers ideas about how to observe the month, as does the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Additionally, check out a few GovLoop resources to help you support mental health at your organization:
6 Ways to Support Your Team’s Well-Being
Mental Health 101: It’s OK To Be Not OK
Worksheet: How to Avoid Burnout