May is Mental Health Awareness Month! The Iowa’s Healthiest State Initiative Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit is available for download. Central Rivers AEA is a Make It OK organization. Wear green on May 15 to show your support for Mental Health Awareness Month!
Let’s Make It OK to talk about mental health
Mental illness affects one in five Americans – more than diabetes or left-handedness. It can impact anyone, yet stigma keeps many from seeking help. The Make It OK campaign encourages open conversations to change that. The sooner someone gets support, the better their chances of recovery.
How can you Make It OK? Start talking.
Mental illnesses are treatable, just like physical conditions such as diabetes. When we talk openly about them, we create a culture of understanding and support. Not sure what to say when someone shares their experience? Try some of these responses:
- “Can I drive you to an appointment or bring you a meal?”
- “I’m here for you whenever you need me.”
- “How are you feeling today?”
For more ideas on what to say, visit https://makeitok.org/.
Take the pledge
One way to help is by taking the Make It OK pledge. By signing, you commit to speaking up against stigma and encouraging open conversations. Print it, share it and keep it visible as a reminder to be part of the change.