May is officially the month to promote awareness of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Following yesterday’s Presidential Proclamation, it is now also the month to be aware of mental health in general.
“Today, tens of millions of Americans are living with the burden of a mental health problem. They shoulder conditions like depression and anxiety, post-traumatic stress and bipolar disorder — debilitating illnesses that can strain every part of a person’s life. And even though help is out there, less than half of children and adults with diagnosable mental health problems receive treatment,” said President Barack Obama in his proclamation.
“During National Mental Health Awareness Month, we shine a light on these issues, stand with men and women in need, and redouble our efforts to address mental health problems in America,” he continued.
Don’t Be Ashamed to Get Help
National Mental Health Awareness Month, along with BPD Awareness Month, can go a long way to helping people from all walks of life learn to recognize the symptoms of BPD and other mental health disorders. The awareness months also serve to help erase the stigma of mental illness so that people don’t feel ashamed when it comes to seeking needed treatment.
“As a Nation, it is up to all of us to know the signs of mental health issues and lend a hand to those who are struggling,” President Obama said. “Shame and stigma too often leave people feeling like there is no place to turn. We need to make sure they know that asking for help is not a sign of weakness — it is a sign of strength.”
If you or someone you love is struggling with a mental illness such as Borderline Personality Disorder, May is the perfect month to start a dialogue with someone you trust and seek needed treatment.
Resources for Help
If you don’t feel as though you have anyone to talk to, you can contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA’s) Treatment Referral line at (800) 662-4357 (HELP). If you are in crisis, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, (800) 273-8255 (TALK) provides free, confidential, immediate round-the-clock assistance.
If you are ready to enter treatment but aren’t sure where to turn, contact Clearview Treatment Programs in Los Angeles at (800) 573-0770. Clearview has residential, day, and outpatient treatment programs for addictions, Borderline Personality Disorder, dual diagnosis, and other mental health disorders.
Remember that you are not alone. There are resources and people out there to help you with whatever you are struggling with. Take time during May’s BPD Awareness Month and National Mental Health Awareness Month to get educated and find the help you need.