National Silence the Shame Day Encourages Open Conversations About Mental Health

(Oneida, Wis.) – Did you know that, according to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI), 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. are living with a mental illness and that the two most common are anxiety and depression? Did you also know that despite the large number of people who are experiencing mental health challenges, people still hesitate to talk about it?

This May 5, we encourage everyone to help redefine mental wellness on National Silence the Shame Day by starting a conversation with your friends and loved ones about mental health. Start by sharing the “1 in 5” statistic above and take it from there.

“Well-being directly impacts our overall health,” explained Mari Kriescher, Oneida Behavioral Health Director. “Mental health is a fluid state that changes based on the stimuli and circumstances in our lives at any given moment. Talking about our challenges with others is so important. It can lead to an improved sense of well-being and can help bring us clarity about the challenges we may be facing.” Following are some ideas you can use to start talking about mental health:

• Ask a friend, family member or co-worker how things are going
• Ask a friend when they last did something to take care of themselves and what it was
• Share your feelings with those who love you. Whether it’s optimism, anxiety or sadness, it can be a great relief to share what you’re experiencing
• Take stock of the good things and people in your life and if it makes sense, say “thank you”

Kriescher added, “It’s important to know that talking about and taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. It’s essential to living your best life.”

If you feel your mental health could improve with a deeper conversation, please reach out to a mental health provider in our area. They offer support and a variety of resources, from traditional therapy to alternative methods. If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988 to speak to a trained crisis counselor who can provide support and connect you with the right resources.

Oneida Behavioral Health (OBH) offers a wide range of services to members of the Oneida Nation and their families, including individual adult, youth and children’s therapy, ATODA services, suicide prevention, depression awareness, grief counseling and more. Services are provided at locations including the Ka?nikuhli.yo Family Center, Anna John Resident Centered Care Community, Veterans office and Oneida Nation schools.

05022024