Each year since 1949, health practitioners have chosen the month of May to support mental health education, destigmatize mental illness, promote recovery and advocate for improved mental health services. This is important because we all need to find healthy ways to cope with the stresses of life and prioritize our mental health, so we can thrive.

PATH Activities that Support Mental Health Did you know that PATH has some great activities to help you learn about and keep track of your mental health? If you haven’t looked around much, you might be surprised! And you can even earn PATH points while you explore these helpful resources. Check out some of the activities and learning opportunities below: Journeys. Healthy Habits. Media Library. Mindful of Mental Health Recorded Webinar — Overcoming the Stigma of Mental Health. You’ll find additional PDRMA mental health resources on our Wellness Benefits and Resources website page in the Mental Health Resources folder in the Related Information sidebar on the right. If you are a PDRMA Health member, you can also take advantage of these resources: Ulliance — Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Teladoc — for PPO Plan participants. Learn to Live — If you are in the PPO or HMO, you can access this online mental health platform using your Blue Access for Members account.

“Our physical and mental health impact how we feel every day. When we ignore our mental health, our overall wellness can suffer,” explains Hayley Flott, PDRMA Wellness Consultant. “We are at our best when we’re mentally strong.”

But that’s not always going to be the case. When we face challenges — tough times — at different points in our lives, they can create anxiety, depression, stress or burnout. Whether it’s your job, family responsibilities, health issues or financial struggles, these demands can make you not feel your physical — as well as mental — best. Groups such as teens, minorities, older people and those living alone experience anxiety and depression when dealing with issues like identity, discrimination and isolation.  

It's More Common Than You Think

Everyone can experience situations that impact their mental well-being. In fact, one out of every two people in the world — that’s 50 percent — will develop a mental health disorder in their lifetime, according to a Harvard Medical School study. However, not everyone who struggles recognizes their need for support or feels comfortable seeking it.  Some people are reluctant, because they don’t think their family, friends or others will understand. Negative stereotypes of mental illness can lead to delayed treatment and longer recovery times.

First Line of Defense

That’s why it’s especially important for friends and family to raise their awareness of mental health issues. You and your coworkers can even be part of the first line of defense by spotting signs of trouble before they worsen. Mental Health First Aid Certification is a great way to do that. This certification is an evidence-based, early-intervention course about mental health and substance use challenges. It teaches you how to spot when someone might be having a problem along with simple things you can say and do to help them. Click here to learn more about this valuable program.

Learn More — Live Better

For many of us, just knowing more about mental health can be gratifying and provide peace of mind. And there are more learning resources now than ever to support a range of interests — from those who are simply curious to learn, to finding help for people experiencing a crisis. Here’s how to connect and learn more:

• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline — Dial 988.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Mental Health Awareness Month.
• SAMHSA — Get Help.
• National Alliance on Mental Illness.
• The Trevor Project.