Join us to recognize Mental Health Awareness in May
Each May Howard Center joins the community in marking National Mental Health Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness of the importance of mental health for the wellbeing of all Vermonters.
The National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) tells us that about one in every five U.S. adults experience a mental illness each year and one in every 15 experience a serious mental illness. Whether it’s because of the stigma still associated with seeking help for mental health needs, misunderstandings about the signs of mental illness, or a lack of knowledge about available services, less than half of the Americans who experience mental illness each year will receive treatment.
May is a great time to learn more about recognizing the signs of mental illness and the many services and supports available here in Vermont. Howard Center and other organizations like NAMI, Vermont Care Partners, and the Vermont Department of Mental Health all have informative websites where you can learn about common signs of mental illness and places to find help in your area. Many organizations also hold public events and presentations now and throughout the year where you can learn more. Howard Center is hosting two free and open to the public community education events in May on May 4 and May 18. For more info, visit our community education pages or visit our video archive of past events here and below.
This is also a good time to check in on our own mental wellbeing. The pandemic has been particularly hard on many of us, and this month provides an opportunity for reflection and encouragement to seek help if you feel a need. It’s also a perfect time to rebalance your routine and make sure you have the time and space you need for self-care.
SEE OUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS TIPS HERE.
Please take a look at our one-page columns and resources that address areas of concern for most individuals and families: Mental Health & Youth Ι Racism & Mental Health Ι Anxiety Ι Depression Ι Social Connection
View or download a copy of our Suicide Prevention booklet.
Resources and Information
Videos from our October 2021 WMHD Free Speaker Series
October 7 | Supporting resilience in the face of unrelenting uncertainty.
Simha Ravven, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Howard Center
Dr. Ravven talks about ways caretakers can care for themselves and support resilience in themselves and others in times of ongoing stress.
October 19 | Good beginnings for the youngest among us.
Liz Mitchell, LICSW, Early Childhood Program Director, Howard Center.
How do we as parents and caregivers support the early childhood years?
October 28 | Compassion fatigue for the whole community. Beth Goss, LCMHC, Director of Client Care and Coordination, Howard Center.
Beth discusses signs of burnout and other risk factors and help us to identify practical ways to protect and nurture our strengths, better manage our stressors, and find balance in our lives. Click on image below to play full webinar.
