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MDCH Recognizes May as
Mental Health Month
LANSING: The Michigan Department
of Community Health (MDCH) observed May as Mental Health Month
in a national effort to raise awareness about mental health
conditions and the importance of mental wellness for all.
“Many people are still reluctant
or afraid to talk about mental illness because of the stigma
that is attached with it,” said MDCH Director Janet Olszewski.
“This month and beyond must be used to not only eliminate the
stigma associated with mental illness, but to help people feel
comfortable talking about it and getting treatment for it. We
have to create a community and a society of acceptance if we
want healing.”
In March, during the Anti-Stigma
Conference in Detroit, Olszewski revealed a new slogan that will
appear on billboards across the state during the course of the
year: “Look Closer, see me for who I am.”
The slogan’s message, developed
by MDCH staff, members of the Michigan Association of Community
Health Boards and various MDCH stakeholders, conveys that there
is no place for stigma.
Congress established May as
Mental Health Month in 1949. This year’s theme is focused on an
essential component of maintaining and protecting mental health
and wellness: social connectedness. The tagline for this year’s
observance is: ‘Get Connected.’ |
