It’s estimated that 1 in 5 Americans deals with a mental disorder in a year, about 43 million people. Most of the time, it’s not disabling, but nearly 10 million adults, about one in 25 have serious problems dealing with daily life due to mental illness.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. One local professional says it’s important to realize that mental illness is a legitimate disease. And, as in other illnesses, early intervention can make a big difference.
“If someone is able to identify early that they’re struggling, they may be able to prevent losing their job or losing relationships with loved ones, and that support network is going to be important in their recovery process,” says Sarah Jefferson, Clinical Administrator of Skills Of Central Pennsylvania.
Skills of Central Pennsylvania is holding several vigils this month to raise awareness about Mental Illness Recovery and Understanding.
They are scheduled for:
May 18 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm, at the State College Borough Building
May 19 from 5 to 6 pm at Lower Whitmer Park in Clearfield
May 25 from 4:30 to 5:30 pm at Lake Rowena, Ebensburg
Also, UPMC Altoona is holding a Mental Health and Wellness Fair starting at 3:30 pm, Thursday, May 12 at the Jaffa Shrine in Altoona. It will feature representatives from area mental health providers.
