Mental Health Month

Carly Wieder, Senior

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, nearly 50% of all lifetime cases of mental illness begin by age 14 and 75% by age 21. One in five students living in the United States show signs and symptoms of a mental illness each year, and this number may be growing. It is astounding that despite these staggering statistics, many schools do not address the issues of mental health.

The stigma that surrounds mental illness can be detrimental in preventing those struggling from seeking help. Mental health continues to be a taboo subject in society, but just like any physical health concern, there is no shame in mental illness and it should be treated respectfully. It can be uncomfortable to talk about but knowing the signs and symptoms can help guide your conversations and allow you to look out for others. Every illness has its own symptoms, but these are some common ones to look out for:

• Excessive worrying or fear

• Feeling excessively sad or low

• Confused thinking or problems concentrating and learning

• Extreme mood changes, including uncontrollable “highs” or feelings of euphoria

• Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger

• Avoiding friends and social activities

• Changes in sleeping and eating habits

• Abuse of substances like alcohol or drugs

• Multiple physical ailments without obvious causes (such as headaches, stomach aches, vague and ongoing “aches and pains”)

• Thinking about suicide

• Inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress

• An intense fear of weight gain or concern with appearance

If you notice these signs in yourself or others, it is important that you reach out. It can be terrifying, but speaking from experience, it is so relieving. Therapy can be expensive but talking with a friend or family member can be a great starting place. You don’t have to be diagnosed with a chronic mental illness to seek help. Therapy and emotional intelligence is important for everyone. Whether you are facing school stress, dealing with loss of any kind, or are interested in learning more about yourself, there is a place for you.

Palisades offers help through your guidance counselors and more. Teachers are able and willing to help you through daily stressors. If you are uncomfortable talking to someone, there are amazing internet resources. 7 Cups is an online therapy and support center that will anonymously connect you with a therapist along with hosting a variety of stress relieving videos and activities. BetterHelp is also an affordable online counseling platform.

There is no shame in utilizing these resources. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Recognizing that you could use help and better yourself is a sign of strength.

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Information courtesy of NAMI.org and NIMH.NIH.gov