Mental Health Awareness Month: Why It Matters and How to Participate
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to prioritize well-being, reduce stigma, and share clear, accessible information about mental health. At Desert Clover Psychiatry, we view mental health as essential, not optional. This month is an opportunity to highlight that care should be as routine and stigma-free as any other form of healthcare.
Just A Few Reasons Why Mental Health Awareness Month Matters…
Mental health conditions are far more common than many people realize:
About 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience a mental illness each year (NAMI)
1 in 6 youth aged 6–17 face a mental health disorder annually (NAMI)
Half of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24 (NAMI)
Despite the numbers, many people don’t receive care due to barriers like stigma, lack of access, or not recognizing the signs early (National Council for Mental Wellbeing).
What You Can Do This Month
Every conversation about mental health helps make it safer for the next person to speak up.
Whether you’re actively working on your mental health or supporting others, here are a few ways to participate meaningfully:
Start conversations: Share your experiences or invite someone to share theirs.
Check in with your circle: “How are you, really?” can open important doors.
Normalize support: Let people know that getting help is a strength, not a weakness.
Learn the signs: Early recognition of mental health changes matters
Take a break: Set boundaries, rest, and prioritize your own wellness needs.
Our Commitment at Desert Clover Psychiatry
We offer Therapy Engagements and Medication Strategies grounded in science, empathy, and flexibility. Whether you’re just beginning to seek support or managing a long-standing condition, we meet you where you are. Our approach is stigma-free, client-centered, and always evolving with tomorrow in mind.
As we mark Mental Health Awareness Month, take a moment to reflect on your own needs, or encourage someone else to do the same. Small, intentional steps can lead to meaningful change.
Need Help Starting?
Visit desertclover.com to explore services or call (602) 492-2121. We’re here to help you take that first or next step.