Bringing the Light to Mental Health & Wellness
Most of the time, mental health problems are invisible to the outside world—and that means those who are struggling often struggle alone. By shining a much-needed light on mental wellness, we can dispel the myths, learn the facts, and help start important conversations.
Who’s At Risk?
Mental health conditions can affect anyone.
Learn how some populations are disproportionately impacted.
Shedding Light on Common Mental Health Myths & Stigmas
Hover or tap on each statement below to reveal the truth.
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Myth:
Only certain people are at risk of developing a mental illness.
Truth:Mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of whether they have a family history or other predispositions to it.Source
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Stigma:
People with mental health problems are likely to be violent.
Truth:People with mental illnesses are no more likely to be violent than anyone else. In fact, studies show that only 3-5% of violent crimes are connected to mental illness.Source
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Myth:
Mental health is completely separate from physical health.
Truth:Mental health problems can cause fatigue, blood vessel constriction, and a weakened immune system, putting one at risk for many physical health conditions.Source
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Stigma:
Mental illnesses are something to be ashamed of.
Truth:Just like physical health, mental health is one facet of our overall wellness. Mental health problems don’t define a person, and they’re not anyone’s “fault.”Source
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Myth:
Mental health problems cannot be prevented.
Truth:There are many protective factors that can help prevent the development of mental illness. These include a healthy diet, good relationships with family and peers, and emotional self-regulation.Source
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Stigma:
People should be secretive about getting help for mental health issues.
Truth:Sharing real-life stories is one of the best ways to fight stigma. Talking openly about our own experiences can help break down barriers for others.Source
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Myth:
People with mental health problems never recover.
Truth:With treatment and support, people with mental illnesses can successfully manage their symptoms and get better.Source
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Stigma:
All mental illnesses are alike.
Truth:There are more than 200 forms of mental illness, and these can have vastly different symptoms, health impacts, and treatment plans.Source
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Myth:
Mental health problems only happen to adults.
Truth:Half of all mental health disorders begin before age 14. Three-quarters of them begin before age 25.Source
Test Your Knowledge About Mental Health
10 Bright Ideas For Maintaining Mental Wellness
Change can be hard, but your wellness is worth it! Start slow and focus on activities that you enjoy.
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Talk About Mental Health
If you feel comfortable enough, being open and honest about your mental health can help you feel more authentic while challenging stigmas.
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Seek Help If You Need It
If problems are holding you back, talking to a mental healthcare professional or joining a support group can help you start moving forward.
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Get Your Body Moving
Squeezing exercise into your daily routine is great for your physical health, and it can also reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
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Make Time for What You Love
Whether it’s reading, crafting, or running, stay engaged in the activities that bring you joy.
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Learn New Skills
From new hobbies to DIY projects, lifelong learning can give you a sense of purpose and reward.
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Practice Mindfulness
Keep tabs on how you feel, and try relaxing activities such as meditation, breathing exercises, and journaling.
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Eat a Healthy Diet
Give your body the good nutrition and hydration it needs to function well.
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Catch More ZZZs
Make it a priority to get 7-9 hours of good quality sleep each night.
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Stay Connected In-Person
Keep in touch with friends and family, or join a hobby club, church, or sports team to make connections in your community.
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Do Acts of Kindness
Create more good in the world by lending a helping hand to someone in need or doing some volunteer work.
Resources
Crisis Support Resources:
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Free and confidential support for people in distress, plus prevention and crisis resources. Available 24/7.
Dial 988 or visit the website to chat or get more information.
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Crisis Text Line
Free support from a volunteer crisis counselor by text. Available 24/7.
Text HOME to 741741 or visit the website.
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ACTION Line
Free support from trained 2-1-1 staff for adults (18+) in emotional distress and/or substance use crisis. Available 24/7.
Visit the website or call 1-800-HOPE-135.
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Mobile Crisis
Intervention services for children and adolescents experiencing a behavioral or mental health crisis.
Dial 211 and press “1” for “Crisis” to speak with a trained counselor.
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Crisis Resources by County (NAMI)
CT’s chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) lists the crisis resources you can access in your country.
Visit namict.org/crisis-info.
Resources
Screening & Ongoing Support Resources:
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NAMI Affiliates & Support Groups
CT’s chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) lists virtual support groups for a variety of audiences.
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Mental Health Tests (Mental Health America)
Complete an online mental health screening test and get information and resources to help you find support.
Resources
Educational Websites:
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Mental Health America
Learn more about how mental health is a critical part of overall wellness.
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MentalHealth.gov
Find easy-to-understand information about mental health conditions.
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The National Institute of Mental Health
Find statistics, fact sheets, and more research on mental disorders.
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The Connecticut Suicide Advisory Board (CTSAB)
Find resources for a variety of target audiences and environments, and order free print materials & promotional items.
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TurningPointCT.org
Developed by young people in CT who are in recovery from mental health and substance use issues. Read their stories and find guidance.