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Stopping Mental Illness Stigma this Mental Health Awareness Month

Date: 05/01/22

Millions of Americans live with a mental illness. A mental illness is a condition that affects a person's thinking, feeling, behavior or mood. Some of the most common ones are anxiety disorders, ADHD, depression and eating disorders. Many people may be too scared to tell anyone or seek help because of the stigma around mental illness. Stigma is when people view something in a negative way. Not getting the care you need can make mental illness worse.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This yearly observance is meant to fight the stigma, provide support and educate the public about mental health and why it matters. In 2022, the theme for Mental Health Awareness Month is “Together for Mental Health.”

What does it mean to be “Together for Mental Health?”

“Together for Mental Health” means supporting your own mental health and the mental health of those around you. It also means helping get rid of mental illness stigma.

Because of stigma, people may view others living with a mental illness in a negative way. They may also have wrong ideas about mental health conditions. As a result, people with mental illness are often:

  • Isolated and seen as "others."
  • Perceived as dangerous.
  • Seen as irresponsible or unable to make their own decisions.
  • Less likely to be hired.
  • Less likely to get safe housing.
  • More likely to be criminalized than offered health care services.
  • Used to being rejected so much that they don’t always pursue opportunities.

What ways can we stop mental illness stigma together?

  • Use respectful language to talk about mental health conditions.
  • Challenge stigma when you see or hear it.
  • See the person, not the condition.
  • Offer support if you think someone is having trouble.

Getting Help

If you are living with a mental illness or believe you may be, it is important to remember that you are not alone and there is hope. If you think you might need mental health care, please call your doctor or Louisiana Healthcare Connections at 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711), Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. We can explain your benefits  and connect you with doctors, counselors and other providers who can  help you or your child.

Louisiana Healthcare Connections covers many mental health services. View the services we cover here. You can also view more information in our Member Handbook.

You do not have to get a referral from your doctor for these services. You can go to any provider in our network. Providers will assist in helping to figure out what services might best meet your needs. To find a provider, use our Find a Provider tool or call 1-866-595-8133 (TTY: 711).

Experiencing a mental health problem or crisis? You can get help right away. Call our 24/7 Mental Health and Addiction Crisis Hotline at 1-844-677-7553 (TTY: 711) to speak with a licensed mental health counselor.

Remember: For life-threatening situations, always call 911.