May 1st marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Month, a 31-day period during which every American is encouraged to put their mental health needs first. It’s also a time when dedicated mental health professionals are recognized for their efforts in offering compassionate care. Mental Health Awareness Month presents the…
The image of a bipolar person with anger issues is something that has been perpetuated through media for years; however, it is also very stigmatizing and not necessarily correct. Though people with bipolar disorder struggle with emotional regulation and may have trouble managing feelings like anger or irritability at times,…
The decision to go to therapy can be a difficult one, but starting therapy with the right mental health professional is one of the best ways to improve your mental health. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma, borderline personality disorder, feeling overwhelmed, or are unsure of what…
Suicide is a critical public health problem. According to the most current data from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), which dates to 2020, it is the 12th leading cause of death for Americans. Additionally: Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for individuals ages 10-14 and 25-34…
It’s estimated that more than 50 million adults in America will experience some form of mental health condition in their lifetimes. That’s around 20% of the entire adult population of the United States. In addition, a recent Pew Research study found that, though self-reported religious affiliation rates have declined in…
First, let’s clear up one thing: There’s nothing inherently spooky or dangerous about mental health conditions like dissociative identity disorder (split personality) and schizophrenia. But that hasn’t stopped filmmakers from exploiting these conditions again and again in their horror movies. Cinematic depictions of people with mental health disorders can range…
Addiction is, in fact, a disease of the brain, but many continue to insist that it is not—and doing so only causes sufferers further harm. This stigma surrounding addiction discourages those who suffer with the disease from opening up about their struggles and getting the help that they need. To…
A mental health professional’s ultimate mission is to help his or her clients live their very best lives—which takes patience, understanding, and support. What I mean to say is therapy is a safe place: you don’t have to worry about being judged or ridiculed—your only worry should be getting down…
Religion and spirituality have played major roles in the lives of Black men and women since the days of slavery and before. The connection with God has been significant in helping individuals and families cope with loss, mistreatment, and the hardships of life. It would stand to reason because of…
Many view mental health as a taboo topic of conversation. Some of these people simply don’t want to talk about it—but others actually don’t feel comfortable talking about it. In fact, they’re scared of talking about it. Why? Because of the many stigmas that surround mental health… which are overwhelmingly…
Stigmas surrounding mental health exist in all groups and societies, but are particularly prevalent in the African-American community—making the concept of therapy or counseling a foreign one, at best. Some individuals simply don’t understand the practice, while others frown down upon it… leaving those in the community who struggle with…
Let’s face it, counseling is often a difficult choice to make. Deciding to allow someone in on those thoughts and feelings that perhaps you haven’t shared with family and friends often leaves one feeling anxious. Although counseling has become more acceptable across the board, when you look at who is…
