Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month began in the United States in 1949 and was started by the Mental Health America (MHA) organization (then known as the National Association for Mental Health). Each year in mid-March Mental Health America releases a toolkit of materials to guide preparation for outreach activities during Mental Health Awareness Month. During the month of May, MHA, its affiliates, and other organizations interested in mental health conduct a number of activities which are based on a different theme each year.

The purpose of Mental Health Awareness Month is to raise awareness and educate the public about: mental illnesses, such as the 18.1% of Americans who suffer from depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder; the realities of living with these conditions; and strategies for attaining mental health and wellness. It also aims to draw attention to suicide, which can be precipitated by some mental illnesses. Additionally, Mental Health Awareness Month strives to reduce the stigma (negative attitudes and misconceptions) that surrounds mental illnesses. The month came about by presidential proclamation.

🧒🏾👧🏽 Mental health isn’t just for adults—it starts early. That’s why this month, we’re spotlighting the importance of nurturing the emotional well-being of Black children and youth.

🌱 Origin & Purpose:

Mental Health Awareness Month began in the U.S. in 1949 to raise awareness about mental illness and promote mental wellness. In Canada, May 7 marks National Child & Youth Mental Health Day—initiated by the Institute of Families to emphasize connection, empathy, and early support for youth struggling with mental health.

📊 Did You Know?

🔹 1 in 5 children will experience a mental health challenge before age 19.

🔹 Black youth are less likely to receive adequate mental health support due to stigma, systemic bias, and lack of access.

🔹 Early mental health support can lead to better lifelong outcomes: improved academic performance, stronger relationships, and reduced risk of chronic illness.

🔹 Youth who feel heard, supported, and seen are more resilient and confident as they grow.

🖤 In Black communities, stigma around mental health still creates silence—and silence can be harmful. But healing starts with acknowledgment, cultural safety, and access to care.

💬 Our children deserve more than survival—they deserve to thrive. Mental health is not a luxury, it’s a foundation.

👥 Let’s support Black-led nonprofits working to empower, heal, and advocate for youth mental wellness.

Here are organizations making an impact:

👉🏾 @courtneybrame Something Positive For Positive People – USA

👉🏾 @onevoiceoneteam – Canada

👉🏾 @gen_chos3n – Canada

👉🏾 @restcentres – Canada

👉🏾 @reachwithin_bjlfc – Grenada 🇬🇩

👉🏾 @thegoodguidesofficial – Canada

🔗 See more in our online directory: www.supportblackcharities.org/directory

📢 This May, let’s speak up, support youth, and normalize mental health in our homes, schools, and communities. ❤️💚🖤