The majority of people living with mental illness have been blamed for their condition at some point. They’ve been called derogatory terms, considered “just dramatic,” or dismissed as something they will “grow out of.” Beyond name-calling, people are also illegally discriminated against, often without recourse for justice. This is the untenable power stigma holds.  The […]

Each May, mental health professionals unite to raise awareness and promote education about mental health and mental illnesses. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to reduce stigma, support, and encourage conversations surrounding mental health topics.  For a bit of history, the observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, began in the United States in 1949 and was […]

There is a clear connection between substance abuse and mental health. Substance use and mental health disorders affect very similar areas of the brain, disrupting our ways of thinking and behaving. They cause altered mental states that are difficult for a person to control, and these disorders often co-occur. It’s reported that more than 17 million adults […]

We’ve seen it in the movies, on TV shows, and social media. Many of us have witnessed it in real life – the obvious, epitomized illustration of someone being “high” on drugs: Red eyes, slurred speech, poor coordination, changes in appetite. However, while it’s true there are some tell-tale signs of being high, there is […]

Mental health issues are becoming an increasingly common topic of concern. Amidst and now after the COVID-19 pandemic, teenagers deal with new and persistent feelings of stress, fear, worry, grief, and uncertainty about what lies ahead. Many children, teenagers, and young adults do not know how to cope. Therefore, checking in with your teenager is […]

Mental illness can happen to anyone, no matter their age, background, or socioeconomic status. Millions of people – an estimated 20 percent of U.S. adults, and 17 percent of youth – are diagnosed with a mental illness each year. Even more are struggling with mental health issues, but afraid to ask for help.  Mental illness […]

Mental health plays a vital role in our overall well-being. It is just as important as our physical health and, as a result, heavily influences our quality of life. Those who are struggling with their mental health are more likely to experience relationship challenges, physical health issues, and disruptions in their long-term goals. For this […]

Mental illness can affect anyone, of any age or upbringing—including adolescents. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), close to 50 percent of adolescents has had, or will experience, a mental health disorder during their lifetime.  Of course, some adolescents are at greater risk of developing a mental illness than others. Certain influences, […]

As parents, we want to protect our children from harm. We want to keep them safe. This means protecting their physical well-being as well as their emotional and mental health.  While physical health is something that’s more easily seen and understood, some parents question whether they are doing enough to safeguard their children’s mental health. […]

Anyone can develop a mental health disorder like depression and anxiety. Most often, these disorders arise during the teenage years—between 14 and 18 years old. As a parent, you may be wondering what puts a teen at higher risk of developing mental disorders like depression and anxiety. What are the main causes of anxiety and […]