Breaking Down Stigma: The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
As May unfolds, so does Mental Health Awareness Month—a crucial time for us to reflect, educate, and advocate for mental health wellness. This year marks The Women’s Center’s 50th year of service to our community’s mental health, and KPMG has joined us as our Mental Health Awareness Month Sponsor. To commemorate this milestone, we’re diving deep into our chosen theme: #EndtheStigma.
To kick off our exploration, we sat down with Susan Gatsos, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and the Clinical Director at The Women’s Center to gather insights from her wealth of experience. Susan shared invaluable perspective on how individuals can actively contribute to dismantling the mental health stigma in their communities.
Educating oneself about mental illness is the first step in this journey. “There are many resources readily available,” Susan remarks, highlighting the wealth of information offered by organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). NAMI’s comprehensive yet practical information bank is an excellent resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of mental health.
Learning about mental health not only broadens one’s knowledge but also empowers individuals to recognize potential warning signs. Susan expands, “Common red flags include maladaptive behaviors such as sudden increases in substance use or withdrawing socially, along with symptoms like difficulty concentrating or heightened anxiety or suicidal thoughts.” Identifying these indicators is crucial, as it can pave the way for timely intervention and support.
Yet, amidst these challenges, individuals may encounter barriers—both external and internal—that get in their path to seeking care. “External barriers, such as cost or concerns about privacy, can often be addressed with the right information and resources,” Susan observes. However, internal barriers necessitate deeper exploration, often through motivational interviewing techniques aimed at uncovering underlying concerns.
Mental health education plays a vital role in reducing these obstacles. When communities prioritize mental health awareness, individuals are more likely to seek help early and access the support they need. Schools, workplaces, and families can all contribute by promoting open conversations and normalizing mental health care. Moreover, integrating mental health resources into everyday environments helps reduce stigma and encourages proactive engagement.
Susan also emphasizes the power of everyday conversations. “When we speak openly about mental health, we normalize it,” she said. Whether it’s checking in on a friend, sharing your own story, or simply listening without judgment, these small acts can ripple outward, creating a more compassionate and informed community.
Pervasive misconceptions surrounding therapy can further complicate the journey toward mental wellness. Susan dispels some of these myths, including the notion that therapy is an indefinite endeavor or that it requires no effort between sessions. By fostering awareness and engaging in open dialogue, we can debunk these myths and foster a more inclusive understanding of mental health care.
Susan emphasizes, “Overcoming stigma necessitates dialogue.” By fostering open conversations and dispelling misconceptions, we can pave the way for greater acceptance and support within our communities. Together, let’s continue to advocate, educate, and stand in solidarity to #EndtheStigma surrounding mental health.
Remember, you are not alone. Help is available, and healing is possible. We urge you to reach out to us at (571) 385-1625 (Virginia Office) or (202) 293-4580 (DC Office). You can also make an appointment on our website.
Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that change begins with empathy—and each of us has a role to play. By showing up, speaking out, and supporting one another, we help build a world where mental wellness is valued, understood, and embraced.
