Mental Health Awareness Month 2025

Mental health affects everyone, yet many people still struggle to get the support they need due to persistent stigma, lack of resources, or inadequate understanding. Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity to change this reality by promoting open conversations, sharing reliable information, and connecting people with life-changing resources.

This page explores Mental Health Awareness Month, why it matters, key statistics about mental health in the United States, practical ways to show support, and where to find help when you or someone you care about is struggling.

What is Mental Health Awareness Month?

Mental Health Awareness Month takes place every May. It’s a national movement to raise awareness about mental health conditions and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness [1]. 

First established in 1949 by Mental Health America (formerly the National Association for Mental Health), this observance has grown into a nationwide effort involving healthcare providers, advocacy groups, government agencies, schools, and communities [2].

During Mental Health Awareness Month, also known as Mental Health Month, organizations across the country host events, share educational resources, conduct screening programs, and launch campaigns designed to:

• Educate the public about mental health conditions and their impact.
• Reduce stigma by encouraging open conversations about mental health.
• Highlight the importance of early intervention and prevention.
• Promote access to quality mental health care.
• Advocate for policy changes that support mental health services.
• Connect people with resources and support systems.

The theme for Mental Health Awareness Month 2025 is Turn Awareness into Action, encouraging people to take meaningful steps toward protecting their mental health and loved ones in need.

Why Do We Support Mental Health Awareness Month?

Supporting Mental Health Awareness Month matters because mental health affects every aspect of life, from relationships and work performance to physical health and quality of life. Despite this impact, misconceptions and stigma prevent many from seeking help [3].

The consequences of untreated mental health conditions can be severe. People living with an SMI (serious mental illness) face an average reduction in life expectancy of 10 to 25 years compared to the general population [4]. Much of this disparity stems from treatable medical conditions that go unaddressed because of various barriers to care.

Mental Health Month helps break down these barriers by:

• Fighting stigma that prevents people from seeking help.
• Educating the public about early warning signs and symptoms.
• Highlighting the connection between mental and physical health.
• Promoting the message that treatment works and recovery is achievable.
• Encouraging supportive conversations among families, friends, and colleagues.
• Advocating for better mental health policies and funding.

For employers, schools, and communities, Mental Health Awareness Month provides a structured opportunity to evaluate their approach to mental health. Organizations can use this time to implement new policies, offer training programs, and create environments where mental health is prioritized alongside physical health.

What Are Some Key Facts About Mental Health in the U.S.?

The scope of mental health challenges in the U.S. helps illustrate why Mental Health Awareness Month is so important.

1. More than 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience a mental illness, amounting to over 50 million people, according to the National Institute of Mental Health [5].
2. Among these, 36.2% are young adults aged 18 to 25, 29.4% are adults aged 26 to 49, and 13.9% are adults aged 50+.
3. Anxiety disorder is most commonly diagnosed, affecting 19.1% of the U.S. population annually [6].
4. Major depressive disorder affects 21% of adults in the U.S. at some stage in their lives, with higher rates among young adults [7].
5. More than 3 in 10 people with mental illness do not receive treatment for their condition, according to NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) [8]
6. The average delay between symptom onset and treatment is 11 years.
7. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10 to 34 in the United States [9].
8. Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, according to the World Health Organization [10].
9. 55% of U.S. counties have no practicing psychiatrists, and 77% have a severe shortage [11].
10. Mental illness costs the U.S. economy over $280 billion annually in lost productivity [12].

These statistics show significant gaps in mental healthcare access and utilization. While there are effective treatments for all mental health conditions, many people face barriers, including:

• Lack of insurance coverage or high out-of-pocket costs.
• Shortage of mental health professionals, especially in rural areas.
• Long wait times for appointments.
• Transportation challenges.
• Continued stigma and misunderstanding.
• Lack of awareness about available resources.

 Mental Health Month helps address these challenges by improving understanding, encouraging policy changes, and connecting people with existing resources.

How Can I Support Mental Health Awareness?

You don’t need specialized training to support Mental Health Awareness Month. Here are some practical ways anyone can participate:

Educate yourself and others

• Learn about common mental health conditions through reputable sources.
• Follow mental health organizations on social media and share their content.
• Attend webinars, workshops, or community events focused on mental health.
• Host a discussion group or book club centered on mental health topics.
• Share personal stories to normalize conversations about mental health.

Practice compassionate communication

• Use person-first language that separates individuals from their diagnoses.
• Avoid terms that stigmatize mental illness or perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
• Listen actively when someone shares their mental health experiences.
• Ask supportive questions rather than offering unsolicited advice.
• Check in regularly with friends, family members, and colleagues.

Take care of your mental health

• Establish healthy routines that include adequate sleep, nutrition, and exercise.
• Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing.
• Set appropriate boundaries in your personal and professional relationships.
• Take regular breaks from news and social media when feeling overwhelmed.
• Seek professional help when needed without shame or hesitation. 

Advocate for change

• Contact elected officials about mental health policy issues.
• Support legislation that improves access to mental healthcare.
• Encourage your workplace to offer mental health resources and accommodations.
• Ask schools to incorporate mental health education into their curriculum.
• Volunteer with or donate to mental health organizations.

Participate in awareness events

• Wear green, the color representing mental health awareness.
• Participate in awareness walks or fundraising events.
• Join social media campaigns using hashtags like #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth.
• Attend or organize community gatherings focused on mental well-being.
• Support businesses that contribute to mental health initiatives.

 Create supportive environments

• Promote open communication about mental health in your home, workplace, or community.
• Implement stress-reduction practices in your daily routine.
• Recognize and celebrate mental health achievements.
• Offer flexibility and understanding when someone is struggling.
• Develop peer support networks within your social circles.

Even small actions can make a major difference in reducing stigma and supporting those affected by mental health conditions. The collective impact of individual efforts during Mental Health Month helps create lasting change throughout the year.

Where Can I Find Mental Health Resources?

Here are some reliable mental health resources available nationwide:

Crisis support

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 988 (call or text).
• Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741.
• Veterans Crisis Line – 988, press 1 (or text 838255).
• The Trevor Project for LGBTQ+ youth – Call 1-866-488-7386.
• Disaster Distress Helpline – 1-800-985-5990.

 Treatment locators

• SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
• Psychology Today Therapist Directory.
• Your health insurance provider’s directory.
• Community mental health centers.
• University or college counseling centers.

 Online resources

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (nami.org).
• Mental Health America (mhnational.org).
• National Institute of Mental Health (nimh.nih.gov).
• American Psychological Association (apa.org).
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America (adaa.org).

 Support groups

• NAMI Connection Recovery Support Groups.
• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Groups.
• Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon.
• Narcotics Anonymous and Nar-Anon.
• Grief support groups are available through hospices or community centers.
• Online support communities like Mental Health America’s Inspire.

Workplace resources

• EAPs (employee assistance programs).
• HR departments.
• Workplace wellness programs.
• Mental health benefits through employer insurance.
• Workplace accommodations for mental health conditions.

School-based resources

• School counselors and psychologists.
• University counseling centers.
• Student health services.
• Disability support services.
• Peer support programs.

Mental health is a core component of overall well-being and is just as important as physical health. Participating in Mental Health Awareness Month initiatives helps ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive mentally and emotionally.

FAQs

Is May or October Mental Health Awareness Month?

May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States. World Mental Health Day is observed in October each year.

What are the 7 types of mental disorders?

The 7 types of mental disorders are anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, trauma-related disorders, and substance use disorders.

Which month is Mental Health Awareness Month?

May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month in the U.S.

What is the #1 most diagnosed mental disorder?

Anxiety disorders are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder in the United States, affecting 40 million people annually.

Is there a mental health day?

Yes, World Mental Health Day is observed globally on October 10 each year, in addition to the month-long U.S. observance in May.

What is the color for Mental Health Day?

Green is the internationally recognized color for Mental Health Day, symbolizing growth, hope, and healing.

Get Help for any Mental Health Issue at a Premier California Facility

If you or someone you love needs help getting back on track from mental health complications, reach out to Connections in Southern California.

We treat all mental health disorders in an inpatient setting at our luxury facility by the beach. Join others grappling with similar issues in a safe, trigger-free space with small group sizes to maximize one-to-one attention without compromising peer support.

The unique aspect of all mental health conditions means Connections treatment plans are personalized. Therapies combine holistic and evidence-based interventions to encourage whole-body healing and long-term recovery.

Get help today by calling 844-759-0999.

Sources

[1] https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/mental-health-awareness-month/

[2] https://mhanational.org/our-history/

[3] https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination

[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9822841/

[5] https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness

[6] https://www.usa.edu/blog/mental-health-statistics

[7] https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/depression/facts-statistics

[8] https://www.nami.org/about-mental-illness/mental-health-by-the-numbers/

[9] https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/suicide-prevention

[10] https://www.who.int/news/item/30-03-2017–depression-let-s-talk-says-who-as-depression-tops-list-of-causes-of-ill-health

[11] https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/psychiatric-care-in-the-us-are-we-facing-a-crisis

[12] https://ls.wisc.edu/news/mental-toll