NAMI Buffalo Trace affiliate recognizes May is Mental Health Month

This May for Mental Health Month, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is raising awareness and highlighting that no one experiencing a mental health condition should feel alone. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!

More than 40 million people in the United States face the day-to-day reality of living with a mental health condition. Now more than ever in these uncertain times, it is important for the mental health movement to come together. NAMI selected the slogan, YOU ARE NOT ALONE, to focus on the power of connection for those affected by mental illness. Collectively, we can make a positive impact on the millions of people who are struggling and feeling particularly alone given the current situation of social isolation and physical distancing.

Daniel Gillison, Jr., CEO of NAMI was quoted stating, “Especially during this time of isolation, uncertainty and tragedy, it is vital that no one feels along in their mental health journey. The COVID-19 crisis not only shines a spotlight on our need for social connectedness, but also our need for real mental health resources. This Mental Health Month, NAMI is raising awareness to change our fragmented mental health system into one that serves everyone, so people can get the care they need.”

NAMI’s mission is to fight stigma, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families. NAMI Buffalo Trace Affiliate normally meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month, at 6pm at our Maysville-Mason County Public Library. Like all other social gatherings COVID-19 has changed this. All meetings are open to everyone for support, access to NAMI programs, as well as having the opportunity to hear various speakers on relevant subjects. Please watch our local papers for our next in person meeting as well as our NAMI Buffalo Trace Affiliate Facebook Page.

Mental Health Awareness Month has never been more important than this year. Previously some people believed mental health wasn’t everyone’s concern. Some people probably believed this only involved a small group, not the one in five who has a mental health issue in any given year. Then a few weeks ago our world seemed to be turned upside down by COVID-19. Suddenly, worry, isolation, loneliness, anxiety, and social distancing would be some things that literally everyone experienced. This is the time for all of us to work together to support our mental health and the mental health of everyone we know. Now it is more important than ever to take care of our mental health, it is important to focus on what we need to do to thrive in uncertain times and now is the time to realize people need help and no one needs to feel alone.

Anyone interested in more information regarding NAMI Buffalo Trace Affiliate, please contact Sharon Darnell (606) 584-2716 or Email: Sharon@namibuffalotrace.org