Mental Health Awareness:
The Ultimate Guide

In this comprehensive article, you’ll learn how to increase mental health awareness by expanding your knowledge and challenging stigma.

Written and reviewed by Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S.

 

 

Table of Contents

Addressing Mental Health Needs with AM Behavioral Health

Life can be challenging, but it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. At AM Behavioral Health, we’re here to listen, understand, and support our clients—every step of the way.

AM Behavioral Health is a leading mental health care center in Dayton, Ohio. We specialize in various treatment programs to address a range of mental health and substance use challenges. Our services are inclusive and designed to meet the needs of diverse communities in Ohio and beyond.

"At AM Behavioral Health, we approach the integration of mental health treatment within a substance abuse recovery plan with a holistic and individualized approach. We recognize the interconnectedness of mental health and substance use disorders and prioritize addressing both simultaneously. Our team conducts thorough assessments to identify any co-occurring mental health conditions and develops personalized treatment plans that integrate evidence-based practices for both substance abuse and mental health issues. This approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of their well-being and promotes sustainable recovery. We also provide ongoing support, therapy, and education to help patients develop coping skills and strategies to manage their mental health symptoms while addressing their substance use concerns."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet
Mental Health Awareness

The Growing Need for Mental Health Awareness

Mental health disorders continue to be a significant global health issue, impacting approximately 12.5% of the population worldwide.1

In recent data assessments, an uptick in mental health issues has become evident across several U.S. states. Notably, Ohio reported the most significant rise in the incidence of mental illness among adults, with a 2.24% increase.2

 

These numbers are alarming — even leading to a rise in substance use, as addiction and mental health challenges often go hand in hand.

"From our clinical perspective, we see that many individuals with mental health conditions may turn to substance use as a way to self-medicate or cope with symptoms, leading to the development of substance use disorders. Conversely, substance use can exacerbate or trigger mental health symptoms, creating a cycle of co-occurring disorders. Addressing both aspects concurrently is crucial for effective treatment, as untreated mental health conditions can undermine substance use recovery, and vice versa. Our integrated approach recognizes the interconnectedness of these issues and aims to provide comprehensive care that addresses both mental health and substance use concerns simultaneously."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet
The prevalence of these disorders highlights the urgent need for comprehensive mental health services and increased mental health awareness to address this critical public health concern.
At AM Behavioral Health, we’re committed to responding to this challenge by providing accessible, effective care to those affected. Our team of mental health experts provides personalized care that meets the needs of every client struggling with mental health issues.

Breaking the Silence on Stigma Surrounding Mental Health

The stigma associated with mental health remains a pervasive barrier to seeking help. Many individuals fear judgment or discrimination, which can prevent them from accessing the necessary mental health services they need for a holistic and positive recovery.

"At AM Behavioral Health, we address the stigma surrounding mental health by fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment. We provide education to patients, families, and the community to increase awareness and understanding of mental health conditions and addiction. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of destigmatizing discussions around mental health and addiction by promoting open dialogue and empathy. Through compassionate care, advocacy, and empowerment, we aim to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment or discrimination."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet
Our team understands these concerns and works tirelessly to dispel these myths. We aim to create a welcoming environment that encourages everyone to seek care without worry or judgment.
We also believe in the power of education and facilitate open discussions with the community to reduce the stigma. After all, no one should feel alone in this journey.
Together, we can make mental health care accessible and judgment-free for all individuals who need it. This way, you and your loved ones can experience the help and support they need for overall well-being.

We Are Your Guide to Mental Health Awareness

We created this guide for education, support, and advocacy in mental health. It is designed to enlighten, empower, and unite the community in the journey toward mental wellness.
Whether you’re seeking information, support, or ways to get involved, our guide provides insights and practical tools to navigate the complexities of mental health. Let’s learn, grow, and advocate together.
Mental Health Awareness

Understanding Mental Health Awareness

The mind requires the same level of care as the body to stay healthy. Mental health awareness is all about understanding feelings and thoughts and how they affect daily life. This helps de-stigmatize mental health disorders and encourages people to seek support without judgment.

Early Intervention

One of the key benefits of mental health awareness is its role in promoting early intervention. This encourages learning about the common signs of mental health issues, such as:
  • Changes in behavior
  • Mood swings
  • Lack of focus
  • Withdrawal from social activities
Recognizing these symptoms enables individuals to pursue early intervention. This not only prevents the condition from worsening but also enhances the effectiveness of treatment.

"We use a variety of screening tools and assessments to identify underlying mental health conditions in patients with addiction. These may include standardized questionnaires such as the Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item scale (GAD-7) and the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5) for post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, we conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, which may involve clinical interviews, medical history reviews, and collaboration with other healthcare providers. By utilizing these tools and assessments, we aim to accurately identify co-occurring mental health conditions and tailor treatment plans to address the unique needs of each patient."

Dr. Rachel Costello, Ph.D., MS, LPCC-S Tweet

Access to Care

Despite the increasing prevalence of mental health conditions, many people find it difficult to access the care and support they require due to a myriad of reasons.
These barriers may include:
  • Financial limitations
  • Anxiety surrounding mental health
  • Limited availability of mental health services
  • Stigma about seeking help from family, friends, or society
Raising mental health awareness encourages communities, policymakers, and healthcare providers to prioritize mental health. It also motivates stakeholders to ensure equal access to affordable and quality mental health care for all.

Common Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions can affect anyone. Beyond the physical symptoms, they can impact mood, thinking, and behavior.
Some of the most common mental health conditions include:

Depression

Depression is a mood disorder characterized by:

  •  Persistent sadness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure
  • Low energy
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Around 21 million Americans struggle with depression. It is also termed as a leading cause of disability worldwide.3
Its occurrence makes everyday tasks and engagement with others challenging. For example, one study revealed that high school students with symptoms of depression are more than twice as likely to drop out compared to their peers.4

Physical Symptoms of Depression

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders are one of the most prevalent mental health issues, affecting 31.1% of US adults in their lifetime.5

These disorders are commonly characterized by intense and excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that can significantly impact daily functioning. The primary forms of anxiety include:
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent worry about various aspects of life.
  • Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD): Overwhelming worry in social situations.
  • Panic Disorder: Sudden, intense fear episodes without real danger.
  • Specific Phobias: Extreme fear of specific objects/situations.

What is an Anxiety Disorder?

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder impacts around 5.7 million adults in the US each year. It causes dramatic shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels, ranging from manic highs to depressive lows.6
This condition is categorized into two types:
  • Bipolar I: At least one manic episode, which may be preceded or followed by hypomanic (less severe mania) or major depressive episodes.
  • Bipolar II: At least one major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode, but without the full-blown manic episodes typical of bipolar I.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Symptoms of bipolar disorders include:
  • Feelings of euphoria or extreme irritability
  • Very high energy and activity levels
  • Decreased need for sleep without feeling tired
  • Racing thoughts and rapid speech
  • Impulsiveness and poor judgment
  • Exaggerated beliefs about one’s abilities
  • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  • Fatigue or decreased energy
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia impacts how people perceive the world around them. It influences their thoughts, emotions, and actions in different ways.
Those with schizophrenia may experience a range of symptoms, including:
  • Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not present)
  • Delusions (firmly held beliefs with no basis in reality)
  • Disorganized thinking and speech
  • Reduced ability to express emotions
Studies suggest that 4.9% of people with this condition die by suicide, specifically in the early stages. Compared to the general population, this rate represents an urgent need for early intervention and comprehensive treatment.7

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders impact eating behaviors and self-perception. These disorders often lead to severe physical and psychological complications. While they can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, they are notably more prevalent among young women.
The condition is characterized by an obsession with food, body weight, and shape. This obsession leads to harmful behaviors and attitudes toward eating and body image.
Key types of eating disorders include:
  • Anorexia Nervosa: An intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, leading to severe food restriction.
  • Bulimia Nervosa: Episodes of binge eating followed by purging to prevent weight gain.
  • Binge Eating Disorder: Regular episodes of excessive eating without the compensatory purging of bulimia.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as warfare, a natural disaster, a serious accident, or personal assault. It affects around 6% of the US population.8
PTSD is characterized by persistent, distressing symptoms that can significantly impair daily functioning.
These symptoms are grouped into four categories:
  1. Intrusive thoughts, such as flashbacks and nightmares
  2. Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
  3. Negative changes in thoughts and mood
  4. Alterations in physical and emotional reactions, such as hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response

A Closer Look at PTSD

Impact of Mental Health Awareness

Mental health awareness is crucial to both individual well-being and overall resilience. When individuals understand their emotions and how to care for their minds, they experience a heightened state of well-being. This translates to a stronger, more supportive community.

Individual Well-Being Flourishes

Mental health awareness empowers individuals to manage stress effectively, navigate challenges productively, and demonstrate resilience in the face of difficulties. It equips them with a set of skills to maintain a healthy and positive mind.

Think of a person who actively engages with friends and family, bounces back from failures and setbacks, and readily embraces new experiences. They demonstrate strong individual well-being.

Building a Stronger Community

Extending beyond the individual, communities have a significant impact on mental wellness. A community embracing mental health awareness fosters a more robust and resilient environment.
Imagine a classroom where open communication about emotions and seeking help are encouraged. This open dialogue combats stigma. When people feel supported, they are more likely to reach out and offer assistance to those who might be struggling.
Mental Health Awareness

AM Behavioral Health's Approach to Mental Health Awareness

AM Behavioral Health is passionate about creating a thriving community where everyone can flourish mentally. We envision a future where mental health is prioritized and people feel empowered to reach their full potential.
This vision fuels our mission: to deliver the highest quality care possible for the well-being and vitality of every individual.

Our Clinical Philosophy

At AM Behavioral Health, our care philosophy focuses on the connection between body, mind, and spirit. We understand that health comprises biological, psychological, and social components.
Here’s how we do things differently:
  • Personalized Care: We put our clients first. Every decision and treatment plan is tailored to meet their unique needs and goals. 
  • Strong Connections: We create a support network that includes not just our clients but also our dedicated team members and providers.
  • Forward-Thinking Treatments: We’re always looking for new and better ways to support each individual’s journey to wellness.
  • A Comprehensive Approach: We look at the physical health, emotional balance, and connections with others to craft a wellness plan. 

Types of Therapy We Provide at AM Behavioral Health

Our team offers various therapeutic approaches for addressing mental health challenges and promoting overall well-being. Some of these include:
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This equips individuals with practical techniques to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviors, empowering them to cultivate healthier coping mechanisms and reshape their perspectives.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): This combines elements of CBT with mindfulness practices, emphasizing acceptance and change to help individuals regulate emotions, navigate interpersonal relationships, and manage distress more effectively.
  • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT integrates pharmacological interventions with counseling and behavioral therapies to support individuals in overcoming substance use disorders, reducing cravings, and preventing relapse while addressing co-occurring mental health conditions.
  • Psychoeducational Groups: These offer a supportive environment for individuals to learn about mental health conditions, develop coping skills, and gain insight into their experiences through shared experiences and expert guidance.
  • Trauma-Focused Therapies: This type of therapy provides a safe space for processing traumatic experiences, reducing PTSD symptoms, teaching coping skills, and fostering healthier relationships.
  • Recreational Therapy: This includes enjoyable activities promoting physical, emotional, and social well-being. This helps enhance self-esteem, provide a sense of accomplishment, and encourage socialization within a support group.
These therapeutic approaches play vital roles in enhancing mental health outcomes and promoting holistic well-being.
Mental Health Awareness

Encouraging Open Dialogues on Mental Health and Well-Being

Mental health often remains shrouded in silence. Open and honest discussions about mental health are crucial for breaking down stigma and fostering understanding.

The Power of Speaking Up

Personal experiences shared in safe spaces normalize mental health discussions. This open dialogue helps people feel less alone and encourages them to seek help when needed.

Policy and Change

Mental health awareness needs to be backed by action. Advocating for policy changes that prioritize mental health is vital. This includes:
  • Increased funding for education programs
  • Expanded access to affordable mental health care
  • Development of effective support systems

Acceptance and Empathy

Only 16.5% of individuals with depression seek help, and stigma remains the main cause.9
Compassion and understanding are essential for mental health awareness. People with mental illness can thrive in a supportive environment when they are treated with respect and acceptance.

Measuring Progress

Mental health awareness efforts require ongoing evaluation. Regularly assessing the effectiveness of programs and initiatives ensures they truly serve the needs of the community. The data and feedback can help adapt and improve existing strategies.

Play Your Role in Mental Health Advocacy

The conversation around mental health is growing, but there’s more to be done. AM Behavioral Health welcomes your support in achieving its mission of mental health awareness and improved access to care.

Become an Advocate

It’s also important to speak your mind and become an advocate when you notice yourself or a loved one start to experience mental health symptoms that are negatively impacting them.
Raise your voice about mental health awareness by:
  • Sharing your story
  • Educating your friends, family, and colleagues
  • Contacting your local representatives and urge them to prioritize mental health funding and policies
  • Challenging stigma about mental health in everyday conversations
  • Showing compassion and understanding toward those struggling with mental health

Support Our Mission

Your support plays a huge role in advancing our mental health awareness initiatives. We invite you to participate in our educational campaigns or volunteer at our events. Join our dedicated team in making mental health care accessible and stigma-free.

Explore the Paths to Wellness

AM Behavioral Health uses a holistic approach to treating mental health issues. We integrate physical, mental, emotional, and social factors to ensure a comprehensive path to wellness.
We understand that each person’s journey to mental wellness is unique. That’s why we offer different levels of care, including:

Diverse Treatment Opportunities

We also offer a diverse range of treatment options, such as:
  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Psychoeducation
  • Motivational interviewing (MI)
  • PTSD therapy
  • Recreational therapy
  • Trauma-focused therapies
  • Dual diagnosis treatment
Our care team evaluates each client and develops a personalized treatment plan to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Mental Health Awareness

AM Behavioral Health's Commitment to Individual and Community Wellness

AM Behavioral Health stands steadfast in its mission to promote mental health awareness and foster community well-being. We strive to break down barriers that may prohibit individuals from seeking treatment by providing the best care available.
If you or a loved one experience symptoms of mental health or substance use disorders, reach out to our team today. We are here to ensure that you feel supported and cared for during your recovery.

Continued Engagement and Support

As the journey toward mental health awareness continues, AM Behavioral Health encourages ongoing engagement and support from all corners. Our programs help individuals feel seen, supported, and heard throughout their recovery.

We also provide aftercare opportunities for individuals who need continued support after their time with us ends.

Connect and Collaborate with AM Behavioral Health

For inquiries, support, and more, call AM Behavioral Health at 937-236-1800 or reach out online. We’re here to assist you in any way we can.

Our compassionate and supportive team is here to ensure that you get the help you need for full and comprehensive recovery from any symptoms you may have.

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