City Council recognizes May as Mental Health Awareness Month

Since 1949, May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month to raise awareness, fight stigma, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.

Mental health problems can affect individuals of any race, religion, age or economic status. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in five people will be affected by mental illness in their lifetime.

Many people with mental health disorders do not receive treatment for their illnesses, due to poor understanding of mental illness and treatment options, stigma, or lack of access to treatment.

Enhanced awareness of emotional and behavioral disorders can help reduce the stigma associated with mental illness, and help improve access to affordable and comprehensive treatment that can help people lead full and productive lives.

This week, the Council went on record recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month in the City of Boston and encouraged all government agencies, public and private institutions, businesses, and schools to take measures to ensure equitable and easy access to mental healthcare, to change policies and practices that negatively impact mental health in the workplace, and to support all residents of Boston in their efforts to be mentally well.