May is Mental Health Awareness Month

A mental illness is a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling, behavior or mood. These conditions deeply impact day-to-day living and may also affect the ability to relate to others. Mental health conditions are far more common than you think, mainly because people don’t like to, or are scared to, talk about them. However:

1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24

A mental health condition isn’t the result of one event. Research suggests multiple, linking causes. Genetics, environment and lifestyle influence whether someone develops a mental health condition.

Mental illness is no one’s fault. And for many people, recovery — including meaningful roles in social life, school and work — is possible, especially when starting treatment early and playing a strong role in the recovery process.

Common Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions encompass a wide range of disorders that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. Some of the most common mental health conditions include:

Depression - Depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It can interfere with daily functioning and may lead to various physical and emotional problems.

Anxiety Disorders - Anxiety disorders involve excessive fear or worry that is difficult to control and impacts daily activities. Common types include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Phobias.

Bipolar Disorder - Bipolar disorder is marked by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood swings can affect energy levels, activity, judgment, and behavior.

Schizophrenia - Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder characterized by delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and impaired functioning. It affects the ability to think clearly, manage emotions, and make decisions.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - OCD involves recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Individuals often perform these behaviors to alleviate the distress caused by obsessions.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) - PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.

Eating Disorders - Eating disorders, such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge-Eating Disorder, involve preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape. These disorders can lead to serious health complications.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - ADHD is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It often affects children and can continue into adulthood, impacting academic and occupational performance.

Personality Disorders - Personality disorders involve enduring patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience that deviate from cultural expectations. Examples include Borderline Personality Disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder, and Narcissistic Personality Disorder.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - ASD is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. Symptoms range widely in severity and may include difficulties with social interactions, repetitive behaviors, and restricted interests.

Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for individuals with mental health conditions.

Strategies For Caregivers Supporting People Living with Mental Illness in the Home

1. Practice Empathetic Communication

Listen without judgment: Many clients may feel shame or fear around discussing their mental health. Being a compassionate, nonjudgmental listener builds trust.
Use supportive language: Avoid stigmatizing words and instead validate feelings (e.g., “That sounds really difficult. I’m here for you.”).

2. Promote Stability and Routine

Structure brings safety: Consistent daily routines can be calming for individuals with anxiety, depression, or other conditions.
Be flexible when needed: Adapt routines gently when a client is overwhelmed or triggered.

3. Educate Yourself on Mental Health Conditions

Understand the common symptoms and behaviors associated with conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, OCD, and anxiety.
Recognize that behavior is often a symptom, not personal. For example, withdrawal or irritability may reflect internal struggles.

4. Watch for Warning Signs

Be alert to changes in mood, appetite, sleep, or behavior.
Report concerns to supervisors or healthcare professionals—early intervention can prevent crisis escalation.

5. Encourage Professional Support

Support clients in attending therapy or medical appointments if part of their care plan.
Reinforce that mental illness is not their fault and that treatment is a key part of managing symptoms, as the PDF emphasizes.

6. Create a Safe and Calming Environment

Reduce overstimulation (e.g., loud noises or chaotic settings), especially for clients with anxiety, PTSD, or ASD.
Maintain a respectful, calm presence, even during emotional outbursts or confusion.

7. Respect Boundaries and Autonomy

Involve clients in decision-making where possible.
Understand and honor personal space and privacy needs, particularly for those with trauma histories or personality disorders.

8. Practice Self-Care and Seek Support

Working with mental health conditions can be emotionally demanding—caregivers should prioritize their own mental health and reach out for supervision or peer support when needed.

As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month this May, let’s take a moment to reflect on the essential role caregivers play in supporting individuals living with mental health conditions. By fostering empathy, stability, and understanding, and by encouraging early treatment and professional support, caregivers can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health—and recovery is possible with the right support, care, and compassion.