The Fidelis Care Blog

In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, Fidelis Care visited partner New Choices Recovery Center, an alcohol and drug treatment facility in Schenectady, and talked with Clinical Coordinator Meagan Rivers, LMHC, NCC, CCTP.

Children's Mental Health Awareness Week is May 5 to 11. Held during National Mental Health Awareness Month, this week highlights the importance of early detection, intervention, and support for children facing mental health challenges. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), notes that about one in six U.S. children ages 6 to 17 experiences a mental health disorder each year, making this week a vital opportunity to explore the issue.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental, physical, and social health are linked. They impact each other. This is called the “mind-body connection.” There is no complete health without mental health. Many studies show that poor physical health can lead to mental health problems. These may include depression, low motivation, and anxiety. Poor mental health also can lead to physical problems. These may include chronic pain, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

This year, Eating Disorders Awareness Week takes place from February 26 to March 3. This week raises awareness and promotes understanding about eating disorders. It is a good time to offer help and provide resources for support. Eating disorders are mental health problems that cause dangerous behaviors involving weight and food. These eating behaviors can cause serious health problems and sometimes result in death. Eating disorders can happen to anyone, but are much more common in women. Common eating disorders include anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder.

Mental health is essential for everyone, regardless of background or ethnicity. Minority communities, however, face unique challenges in regard to mental health. That's why National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, observed in July, serves as an important reminder to prioritize the well-being of all individuals, particularly those who belong to marginalized and underserved communities.