Mental Health

May 2021 DEI Article
“Mental Health Awareness Month”
Written by Yolanda A. Garcia, CP

From May 3-7, 2021, NALA proudly participated in Well-Being Week in Law (WWIL), which aligns with Mental Health Awareness Month in May. WWIL occurs the first week of May to raise awareness about mental health and encourage action and innovation across the profession to improve well-being.

Since 1949, Mental Health America and affiliates across the country have observed May as Mental Health Month by reaching out to millions of people through the media, local events, and screenings. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the mental health of people of all ages. Now, more than ever, it is critical to reduce the stigma around mental health struggles – because that stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help.

For 2021’s Mental Health Awareness Month, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will continue to amplify the message of “You Are Not Alone.” They will focus on the healing value of connecting in safe ways, prioritizing mental health, and acknowledging that “it’s okay to not be okay” through NAMI’s blog, personal stories, videos, digital toolkits, social media engagements, and national events.

Mental Health America will continue with their theme of Tools 2 Thrive, providing practical tools that everyone can use to improve their mental health and increase their resiliency regardless of their personal situations. To access these resources, please click here.

The stigma around mental health and treatment has long existed, though this has started to change. Still, people hesitate to seek help or even talk about it with their loved ones for fear of being judged and facing unnecessary backlash. Simple logic dictates that if one is hurt anywhere, one must seek treatment to get better. This applies to both our mental and physical well-being.

While Mental Health Awareness Month is celebrated in the U.S., a more universal day is also celebrated on October 10, which is known as World Mental Health Day!