As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds in May, mental health professionals in the Lowcountry are emphasizing the importance of open conversations and early intervention to combat the stigma surrounding mental health. They urge the community to recognize that mental health challenges are common and that treatment is both available and effective.
Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
Ryan Mitchell, a nurse at Live Oak Mental Health and Wellness, explains how stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help. Having worked in psychiatric care for nearly a decade, Mitchell notes that many people feel compelled to keep their struggles private, pushing them into isolation.
“The stigma attached to mental health also pushes people into the closet, meaning they want to keep it private,” Mitchell shared. “The way the world has been coming, people have been more and more vulnerable and require much more support than ever before now.” He highlights that vulnerability is increasing, and this reality makes it crucial to offer support and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Since the opening of Live Oak Mental Health and Wellness in June 2022, Mitchell has been dedicated to providing care for the community. “We opened a new psychiatric facility that our community desperately needs,” Mitchell says. “It’s super rewarding. It’s why I get up and come every day.” The facility offers critical support in a time when the need for mental health services is growing.
The Importance of Early Intervention
According to Matthew Dorman, director of clinical operations at Live Oak, one in five individuals will experience a mental health issue during their lifetime, yet 50% of those who need care do not seek it. This reluctance to seek help can have far-reaching consequences, affecting aspects such as employment, relationships, and physical health.
There is a noticeable increase in depression and anxiety among young people, particularly between the ages of 10 and 30. Dorman attributes much of this rise to the influence of social media, which has been linked to heightened stress and feelings of inadequacy.
Dorman emphasizes the importance of checking on loved ones who may be struggling with mental health issues. He encourages the community to be direct and compassionate, saying, “If you know someone who is suffering from mental health issues, please check on them. Just be authentic with them and say, ‘I’m worried about you. What can I do to help?’”
Accessing Help and Support
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a national 24/7 confidential resource, has been widely promoted to help individuals in distress. Both Mitchell and Dorman stress the importance of knowing about such resources and encouraging people to use them.
Mitchell’s work offers him the opportunity to witness patients’ journeys to recovery. “You get to see a patient walk through the front door one way, and you get to watch them get better,” he reflects. “It’s just a beautiful experience that I am so fortunate that God blessed me to be able to be a part of.”
His message during Mental Health Awareness Month is simple yet powerful: “You’re not alone. You are loved, and there is help.”
Community Efforts to Raise Awareness
Local providers, community groups, and national organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) are leading efforts throughout May to increase awareness about mental health. These groups are hosting events and offering educational resources to encourage people to take action and seek the help they need.
In conclusion, the call to action is clear: reduce stigma, encourage open conversations, and support those facing mental health challenges. Through efforts from professionals like Mitchell, Dorman, and local community organizations, the hope is that more people will find the courage to seek help and ultimately lead healthier, more fulfilled lives.
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