Mental Health Awareness Month

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Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM), an observance to educate the public about mental health to fight stigma and make people aware that help is available. The goal of MHAM is to raise awareness about how common mental health issues are, providing coping mechanisms that positively impact the quality of people’s lives, and to direct individuals to the many resources available to them. Please use the materials on this page to learn more and to help spread the word about mental health treatment.

Important Resources

Do you need support right now?

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available.
Call or text 988 or chat with someone at 988lifeline.org.

Federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Mental Health Awareness Month Website – For the past 20 years, SAMHSA has recognized Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) every May to increase awareness about the vital role mental health plays in our overall health and well-being.

Mental Health Treatment Works – Concerned that you or a loved one may be experiencing mental illness? You are not alone. Get professional help. Mental health is an important part of overall health and well-being, yet mental illness affects millions of people and their families nationwide. Know that treatment for mental illness is effective—and help is a phone call away.

Mental Health Myths and Facts – Can you tell the difference between a mental health myth and fact? Learn the truth about the most common mental health myths and information to help destigmatize them. SAMHSA works to prevent and treat mental health conditions and provides support for people seeking or already in recovery.

Talking About Mental Health – Mental health is essential to a person’s life in the same way as physical health. Hesitation to talk about mental health adds to the notion that the topic is taboo. It is important to normalize conversations surrounding mental health so people can feel empowered to seek the help they need. The following resources can help you feel more informed to talk about mental health with the people in your life who may need your support.

Resources for Families Coping with Mental and Substance Abuse Disorders – Every family is unique, but all families share a bond that can be used to support one another during trying times. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for helping a family member who is drinking too much, using drugs, or dealing with a mental illness, research shows that family support can play a major role in helping a loved one with mental and substance use disorders.

Veteran’s Crisis Line – Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one? You’re not alone – the Veterans Crisis Line is here for you. You don’t have to be enrolled in VA benefits or health care to call. Visit veteranscrisisline.net, call 1-800-273-8255, or text 838255.

The Trevor Project for LGBTQ+ Youth – You deserve a welcoming, loving world. And so do the people you care about. Here you can reach out to a counselor if you’re struggling, find answers and information, and get the tools you need to help someone else. Visit thetrevorproject.org or call 1-866-488-7386.

UAMS AR-Connect Support Line – UAMS Health AR ConnectNow is a comprehensive behavioral health treatment program created to provide care to all Arkansans dealing with a variety of mental health issues, from substance abuse disorders to mental illnesses ranging from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Visit psychiatry.uams.edu/clinical-care/arconnect or call 501-526-3563 or 800-482-9921.