Mental health is part of everyday life. It affects how we think, feel, connect with others and move through the world. Like physical health, mental health deserves attention, care and support.
Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) has been observed since 1949, when Mental Health America launched Mental Health Week, which later became Mental Health Month, to help educate the public about mental health and mental illness.
Today, MHAM remains an important reminder that mental health challenges are common, support is available and no one should have to face difficult moments alone.
Mental Health Concerns Are Common
Millions of people experience mental health challenges each year. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 23.4% of U.S. adults experienced mental illness in 2024. That represents more than one in five adults.
Mental health concerns can also begin early in life. The National Alliance on Mental Health reports that 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14 and 75% begins by age 24, making early recognition and support especially important for young people, families and caregivers.
In North Carolina, mental health needs remain significant. According to 2024 data from the North Carolina Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 22.5% of adults in North Carolina said a doctor, nurse or other health professional had told them they had a depressive disorder.
These numbers are more than statistics. They represent friends, family members, coworkers, neighbors and people in our communities who may need care, connection and support.
Signs Someone May Need Mental Health Support
Mental health challenges can look different from person to person. Some signs may be easy to notice, while others may appear gradually over time.
A person may benefit from support if they are experiencing:
- Ongoing sadness, worry or irritability
- Confused thinking or trouble concentrating
- Extreme mood changes
- Withdrawal from friends, family or usual activities
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Increased fear, anxiety or feelings of being overwhelmed
- Difficulty getting through daily responsibilities
- Thoughts of self-harm or feeling like life is not worth living
Noticing these signs does not mean something is “wrong” with a person. It may be a sign that they are going through something difficult and could benefit from attention, support or a conversation with a mental health professional.
You can start by:
- Listening without judgment
- Letting the person know you care
- Asking what kind of support would feel helpful
- Encouraging them to connect with a mental health professional
- Staying connected, even after the first conversation
Support Is Available Through Monarch
At Monarch, we support people with mental health needs through services designed to meet individuals where they are. Our teams work with people to understand their needs, identify goals and connect them with care that can support their mental health and overall well-being.
Depending on a person’s needs and location, Monarch may offer support through:
- Open Access for new patients
- Outpatient therapy
- Mental health services
- Medication management
- Tailored Care Management
- Residential services for people with mental illness
Could Mental Health Support Help You or Someone You Love?
You do not have to wait until things feel unmanageable to ask for help. Whether you are noticing changes in your mood, feeling overwhelmed or looking for support for someone you care about, Monarch may be able to help.
Call (866) 272-7826 to learn more about Monarch’s mental health services and how to connect with support.
Monarch can help connect people to mental health services and ongoing support. For immediate crisis support, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.