Did you know that May is National Mental Health Month?  The idea behind National Mental Health Month is to raise awareness about mental illness and related issues in the United States.  National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day is also observed this month- this year it is May 4, 2017.  Olympic champions Michael Phelps, the world’s most decorated Olympian, and Allison Schmitt, an eight–time Olympic medalist, are partnering with the grantor of DRA’s Protection and Advocacy for Individuals with Mental Illness (PAIMI) grant, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), over the next year to focus attention on the needs of children, youth, and young adults who experience behavioral health disorders, such as mental illnesses and addictions.

There are many resources for individuals looking for information and resources, or even just a forum to share experiences or find a supportive community.  Here are some resources to start:

WebMD:  http://www.webmd.com/mental-health/default.htm

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA):  https://www.samhsa.gov/

MentalHealth.gov (U. S. Department of Health and Human Services:  https://www.mentalhealth.gov/

Mental Health America’s  #mentalillnessfeelslike: http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/feelslike

Blurt (increasing awareness and understanding of depression):  https://www.blurtitout.org/

Mental Health America’s Center for Peer Support:  http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/center-peer-support