Mental Health Awareness Month as a Healthcare Professional

Lisa Lawson • May 3, 2023

Raising awareness for the month of May

As Mental Health Awareness Month rolls around in May 2023, it is crucial for healthcare professionals, including social workers, nurses, and physicians in hospital settings, to come together and raise awareness on this critical topic. This year, let's strive to foster a deeper understanding of mental health, break the stigma, and support those struggling with mental health issues. The following will provide recommendations on how to effectively support Mental Health Awareness Month and information about the 988-crisis hotline. 

Start with Educating Yourself and Others 

To support Mental Health Awareness Month, it is essential to educate yourself and others about mental health conditions, treatments, and resources. Familiarize yourself with the latest research, guidelines, and best practices. Share this knowledge with your colleagues, patients, and their families.  


The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) also has a wealth of resource and education for Mental Health and May’s Awareness Month. Learn more at:  https://www.nami.org/Get-Involved/Awareness-Events/Mental-Health-Awareness-Month  



As Dr. Patrick J. Kennedy, a mental health advocate, and former U.S. Representative, once said, "The only way we'll ever change our nation's approach to mental health is through knowledge and understanding." 


Encourage Open Dialogue 

Promote a culture of open dialogue about mental health within your workplace. This not only helps break down the stigma associated with mental health but also encourages individuals to seek help if needed.


Dr. Marsha Linehan, a renowned psychologist and developer of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, advises that "validation is one of the most important tools in breaking the stigma around mental health." 

Show Empathy and Active Listening 

As a healthcare professional, it is vital to practice empathy and active listening when dealing with patients or colleagues experiencing mental health issues. Show genuine care and support and be patient when they express their thoughts and feelings. 


Consider the words of Dr. Brene Brown, a research professor and author, who said, "Empathy has no script. There is no right way or wrong way to do it. It's simply listening, holding space, withholding judgment, emotionally connecting, and communicating that incredibly healing message of 'you're not alone.'" 

Collaborate with Mental Health Professionals 

Collaborate with mental health professionals within your network or hospital setting to organize workshops, webinars, or support groups to raise awareness about mental health issues. These events can provide education, resources, and support to both healthcare workers and patients. 

Advocate for Policy Change 

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five adults in the United States lives with a mental illness. As healthcare professionals, we must advocate for better mental health policies and ensure that our patients have access to quality mental health care. Speak up about the importance of mental health care in meetings, conferences, and policy discussions. 

Share Mental Health Resources 

One of the key takeaways from Mental Health Awareness Month is the importance of sharing resources. Make mental health information and resources easily accessible to patients, families, and colleagues. This can include brochures, posters, or online resources on various mental health topics. 

The 988 Crisis Hotline 

In July 2022, the United States implemented the 988 crisis hotline as a three-digit, easy-to-remember number for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. As a healthcare professional, you can help raise awareness about this essential resource. Ensure your patients and their families know about the 988 hotline and understand how it can provide immediate support in times of need. 


Learn more about 988 and resources by checking out: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/988/partner-toolkit

Healthcare professionals can effectively support Mental Health Awareness Month by educating themselves and others, promoting open dialogue, practicing empathy and active listening, collaborating with mental health professionals, advocating for policy change, sharing resources, and promoting the 988 crisis hotline.


As we come together to raise awareness, consider the words of mental health advocate and author Glenn Close - "What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversations."

Embracing Integrated Health Internships

By Lisa Lawson • June 11, 2024
Embracing Integrated Health Internships

Leadership's Role in DEI for Healthcare Interns

By Lisa Lawson • March 4, 2024
In the complex and evolving world of community healthcare, non-profit organization leaders have a crucial role in championing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for their consumers, staff, and interns. This responsibility extends beyond ethical considerations; it is a strategic imperative critical to the provision of culturally competent care, fostering an environment of learning and innovation, and reflecting the diverse needs of the communities served. By prioritizing DEI, leaders in this sector can enhance the educational experience of interns, improve patient outcomes, and set a standard for inclusive healthcare practices.

Healthcare Workers and Why Coming Back to the Office Isn’t Always the Best Medicine

By Lisa Lawson • November 12, 2023
From Traditional to Transformational