The World Health Organization defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” Emotional health is typically defined as “the degree to which you feel emotionally secure and relaxed in everyday life; the positive management and expression of your emotional actions and reactions void of any unhealthy stress or depression”.
Why care? Because 1 in 5 people will be affected by mental illness in their lifetime.
Mental health is essential to everyone’s overall health and well-being, and mental illnesses are common and treatable. So much of what we do physically impacts us mentally, and it’s important to recognize how vital it is to tend to and care for our mental health with the vigor that we tend to our physical health. Paying close attention to both can help achieve overall wellness and set you on a path to recovery. Take the time to make it a habit to check in with yourself, family members, loved ones and co-workers.
The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) developed the “Spot the Signs” PSA and a Mental Health Awareness Month Gratitude Calendar as part of a media campaign to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and improve communications for appropriate referrals.
Click the image below to view the PSA.
Georgia Crisis & Access Line:
For access to services and immediate crisis help, call the Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4225, available 24/7.
