Surprising Mental Health Facts That’ll Get Your Attention
May has been designated National Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to increase attention and understanding about mental illness. This annual observance was created in 1949 in an effort to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness and to advocate for more comprehensive and effective treatment.
Today, one in five Americans live with a mental health condition, making it one of the most prevalent health issues in the country today. Mental health disorders are also a leading cause of Disability. Here are 12 surprising mental health facts about the prevalence and impact of mental illness.
- Mental illnesses are more common than cancer, diabetes or heart disease.
- More than 43 million Americans experience mental illness in a given year.
- Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental illnesses in America. More than 21 percent of adults between the ages of 18 and 64 are affected each year.
- Globally, about 350 million people are affected by depression, making it the leading cause of Disability worldwide.
- About 8 million adults suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder during a given year.
- About half of mental disorders begin before the age of 14.
- Minnesota, Massachusetts and Connecticut are among the top 10 states with the lowest prevalence of mental illness.
- Mental disorders increase the risk of getting ill from other diseases, such as HIV, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
- About 26 percent of homeless adults staying in shelters live with serious mental illness.
- Nearly 60 percent of adults with mental illness did not receive mental health services in the past year.
- Mental illness can happen to anyone. All races and ethnicities are affected by the same rate of mental illness. No single group is more likely than others to have a mental health condition.
- Lime green is color associated with National Mental Health Awareness Month. Wear it this month to show your support.
The McDonald Law Firm supports National Mental Health Awareness month and is committed to improving the lives of those affected by mental illness. Unfortunately, thousands of people are suffering physically, emotionally and financially from schizophrenia, PTSD, bipolar, depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions. If you or a loved one has a mental condition and cannot work, there’s a good chance you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. We can help. Call us today at 877-568-8413 or just fill out the form on this page.
