Whenever the month of May rolls around, you probably start seeing a little more lime green in your world. That’s because lime green is the mental health awareness color. Yeah, it seems like there is a month, week, and day for nearly everything these days (hello national hot dog day on July 22), but this one is super important.

So, why is it so crucial to raise awareness for mental health? Let’s just take a look at some of this year’s statistics, why don’t we?

It seems like the state of mental health is pretty bleak, wouldn’t you say? Of course, the past year hasn’t helped things any, but mental health awareness is vital to everyone’s health, no matter what year it is.

Here’s another thing you may have heard more recently: “end the stigma”.

“What stigma?” you ask?

Unfortunately, there is a huge negative stigma associated with mental illness, and it could be the leading reason people don’t seek mental health services. The negative stigma shines a discriminatory light on people with mental illness and causes them to feel:

• Ashamed
• Embarrassed
• Weak
• Isolated

Mental illness is NOTHING to be ashamed of.

Mental illness is NOTHING to be embarrassed about.

Mental illness is NOT a weakness.

Mental illness should NEVER be fought alone.

For some reason, our society places plenty of importance on physical health but neglects the importance of taking care of your mental health. It’s absolutely flabbergasting. (And ridiculous.)

See, having a mental health disorder is not a choice people make, contrary to popular opinion. I mean, who would choose to be depressed? Who would choose to have post-traumatic stress disorder? Who would choose to have anxiety? Who would choose to have an eating disorder?

These things aren’t a choice. Just like if you had an autoimmune disease, or Crohn’s disease, or MS - these illnesses aren’t choices either. Mental illness is an illness. (Well, duh.) That may seem elementary to some, but the unfortunate reality is that many people see mental health disorders as something people can “get over.”

Okay, go tell aunt Mildred to get over her Parkinson’s disease. Then we’ll talk.

So, what does “ending the stigma” mean? It means raising mental health awareness. It means talking about mental illnesses without judgment. It means educating ourselves on mental health disorders. It means making a safer place for people suffering from mental health concerns in this country - and the world.

1. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

NAMI is one of the most comprehensive mental health awareness resources. Their website is loaded with information about every mental health topic you can think of, statistics, brochures, clinical trials, and contacts for getting mental health services.

2. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)

Another powerhouse in the mental health resource department, NAMI provides crucial information to anyone with a mental illness or those seeking information and help for a loved one. They have extensive lists of events, support groups, and online discussion groups.

3. Mental Health America (MHA)

As America’s leading nonprofit dedicated to helping those with mental illness, MHA can educate you on all things mental health disorder-related. MHA can also connect you with mental health awareness events and point you in the right direction for getting the essential mental health services you or your loved one needs.

4. Mental Health.gov

Another fantastic resource for all things mental health, mentalhealth.gov gives you access to all U.S. mental health information. Learn about what to look for in yourself or others struggling with a mental illness, the basics of mental health, and how you can find help.

5. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)

The AFSP is a critical voluntary health organization aimed at helping those affected by suicide. Their scientific research, education opportunities, advocation of public policies, and support to those affected by suicide have been helping our country learn and help prevent suicide for over 30 years. They also run a toll-free crisis line for anyone needing help. The number is 800-273-8255.

6. End the Stigma

End the Stigma is a nonprofit organization and teen mental wellness movement. Their goal is to destigmatize mental illness and raise awareness among teens that it’s okay to ask for help.

And there is SO.MANY.MORE. An incredible number of organizations and nonprofits are doing their part to educate, support, and help people find treatment. There’s really no excuse not to learn more. Don’t be a part of the problem. Be a part of the solution.

You may be asking yourself, “Ummm, why is a weighted blanket company writing a blog about mental health awareness?”

Fair question.

Well, if you take a look at our roots, you’ll see we started Weighted Evolution because we have a deep passion for helping others. Because we’ve fought our own mental health struggles and addictions in the past, we know the importance of ending the stigma and creating positive, more supportive mental health awareness.

Here at Weighted Evolution, we give back to nonprofit mental health organizations, and we are on a mission to do even more for the mental health community. Not just for those who have a mental illness, but for all. Weighted blankets help you sleep better, reduce anxiety, and can improve your overall wellbeing. That’s why we created the best weighted blanket on the market. From its high-quality materials and construction to its comfort and its 100-night risk-free trial.

While our weighted blankets may not be the solution to ending the negative health stigma, it’s our way of making a small contribution to ending the stigma, supporting mental health organizations, and creating a happier, healthier world.