Illustration: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Washington — A new toolkit from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is intended to help raise awareness about the importance of mental health and its effects on physical and emotional well-being.
Released ahead of Mental Health Awareness Month, which begins May 1, the toolkit features information on key messages and weekly themes, along with virtual backgrounds, stickers and email signatures.
The overall theme of this year’s observance is, “See the Person. Support the Journey,” which SAMHSA says highlights the importance of:
- Noticing early signs of mental health concerns.
- Strengthening the support around people.
- Responding with care and compassion during challenging moments.
“Mental health touches every part of life – from housing and work to relationships and community,” SAMHSA says. “When mental health challenges arise, they often intersect with substance use, and whole person care that addresses both is essential to lasting recovery and well-being.”
Mental Health Awareness Month features weekly themes:
Week 1 (May 1-8): Understanding Mental Illness, Including Serious Mental Illness: Awareness Leads to Compassion
Week 2 (May 11-15): Early Support Matters: Recognizing Signs in Children and Youth
Week 3 (May 18-22): Words Matter and Words Can Heal
Week 4 (May 25-29): Supporting Loved Ones: Connection is a Powerful Form of Care
“Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed since 1949,” the agency says. “For more than 20 years, SAMHSA has joined that tradition every May, raising awareness, sharing resources, and supporting the individuals and communities who need it most.
“We encourage you to pick the tools that fit your audience. Download, share and make the toolkit content your own.”
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Original article published by Safety+Health an NSC publication