May is a time to raise awareness of those living with mental or behavioral health issues and to help reduce the stigma so many experiences. Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the United States since 1949. The month is observed with media, local events, and film screenings. Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. During May, NAMI joins the national movement to raise awareness about mental health. Each year we fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.

Resources

Share with us how you advocate for mental health by writing your personal story or sharing #Together4MH graphics and messages with your community.

Partner Resources

Download the 2022 Awareness Event Guide for May’s Mental Health Awareness Month.

Advocate

Join our movement to advocate for a better mental health care system by signing up for advocacy alerts and taking action when opportunities arise in your community.

Because Mental Health Matters

College is an exciting time. From being away from home and finding independence to meeting new people and trying new things, every day brings new experiences. There is also a new level of academic responsibility.  Classes are harder and there is always a due date on the horizon. Balancing all of the changes that happen in college can be stressful and challenging. Those challenges are even more difficult for the 1 in 5 students who also face a mental health condition.  Nearly three-quarters of mental health conditions emerge by age 24, so many college students are facing mental health concerns for the first time, and may not know where to go for support. NAMI knows that some of the best support a student can receive is from peers. When students connect with one another, they can share common experiences and support each other through the transitions.  NAMI on Campus helps make those connections happen. NAMI on Campus clubs work to end the stigma that makes it hard for students to talk about mental health and get the help they need. Clubs hold creative meetings, hold innovative awareness events, and offer signature NAMI programs through partnerships with NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates across the nation.

Why NAMI On Campus?

NAMI on Campus clubs are student-led, student-run mental health organizations on college campuses. NAMI on Campus clubs:

• Raise mental health awareness with fairs, walks and candlelit vigils.
• Educate the campus with presentations, guest speakers and student panels.
• Advocate for improved mental health services and policies on campus.
• Support peers with signature NAMI programs and training from NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates.

As a member of a NAMI on Campus club, you will belong to the largest grassroots mental health organization in America. Club leaders have access to the staff, resources, opportunities and support that comes with being part of this national movement, including opportunities beyond your college years.