One in every five U.S. adults experiences some form of mental health issues during their lifetime. If we see signs of a serious physical illness in our friends or family, we encourage a loved one to get help and check things out as soon as possible. With mental health issues, things can be different. Myths and misunderstandings often stand in the way of people getting the help they need to get well.
October 1-7 – Mental Illness Awareness Week – Sponsored by the National Alliance of Mental Health (NAMI).
October 5 – National Depression Screening Day (NDSD) – The goal of NDSD is to reach individuals across the nation with important mental health education and connect them with support services. People can take an anonymous screening.
October 10 – World Mental Health Day – This year’s focus is taking mental health out of the shadows in the work place.
NAMI Support Resources
- Mental Health Facts Infographic – download and share (PDF)
- Know the warning signs
- Family Members and Caregivers
- Teens and young adults
- Living with a Mental Health Condition
NAMI Programs
- NAMI Family-to-Family – free, 12-session educational program for family, significant others and friends of people living with mental illness. NAMI It is taught by NAMI-trained family members who have been there, and includes presentations, discussion and interactive exercises.
- NAMI Family Support Group – a free peer-led support group for family members, caregivers and loved ones of individuals living with mental illness. Gain insight from the challenges and successes of others facing similar circumstances.
- Other NAMI support programs
ESI EAP Related Newsletters
- Mental Health Matters
- Learn to Throw a Lifeline
- Normal aging or dementia?
- Don’t let stress control you!
