Mental Health Awareness Month in Berks County, PA

This month, we’re reducing the stigma around mental illness.

This May, we’re honoring Mental Health Awareness Month. Founded by Mental Health America in 1949, this month aims to raise awareness and challenge misconceptions about mental illness. Whether you’re someone in need of in-home support, a family member caring for a loved one, or a Griswold Caregiver, your mental health matters.

Mental Health Stigma

23% of adults in the United States have a mental illness, according to Mental Health America. Addiction and substance use disorders are the most common, followed by anxiety and depression. Over 28 million of these adults did not receive treatment for these conditions last year. There is a lot of stigma around mental health that can make it difficult to seek help when it’s needed.

When people delay seeking care, whether because they feel ashamed or don’t have access, it can negatively affect health and quality of life. If you’re struggling, consider exploring these treatment options:

• Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is administered by trained mental health professionals who can help you explore the roots of your feelings and behaviors. Psychotherapy is often combined with medication.
• Medication can be a great way to manage symptoms associated with mental illnesses.
• Support groups and peer support programs are spaces where you can connect with and learn from others who might relate to what you’re going through.

Mental Health & Caregiver Burnout

Caregivers spend so much time putting others before themselves, which can unfortunately lead to Caregiver burnout. Burnout is a state of mental and physical exhaustion that can result from prolonged stress, such as stress from caring for a loved one. Here are some of the signs of burnout:

• Exhaustion and fatigue
• Lack of interest
• Sleep troubles
• Appetite changes

These signs are like symptoms caused by mental health conditions. In some cases, especially if prolonged, burnout can lead to depression and anxiety. That’s why it’s crucial for Caregivers to address their health needs and manage burnout through support options like therapy.

Mental Health Resources in Berks County

Did you know our Director, Gary Hawkins, has over 25 years of experience working and volunteering with local mental health organizations? He served as the Executive Director of the Greater Reading Mental Health Alliance from 2012 to 2019, where he helped secure a grant to build and furnish a beautiful building on Main Street in Wyomissing, PA.

Additionally, Gary was a Mental Health Delegate for the Berks County Office Of Mental Health And Developmental Disabilities (Berks County MH/ID) between 1983 and 2003. He also served as chairperson of several boards, including Mental Health America of Berks County (2012-2019) and NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of Berks County (2013-2017).

Here are a few more mental health resources in the area:

• ruOK? Berks provides advocacy and education around mental illness and suicide. They have a directory of resources for suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention. Their Strike Out the Stigma event is coming up on Thursday, June 9, at First Energy Stadium!
• Family Guidance Center has locations in Boyertown, Hamburg, Kutztown, and Wyomissing, where they offer counseling for couples, families, and groups. You can call their office to set up a telehealth appointment with a clinician or psychiatrist.

Non-Medical In-Home Care Options

At Griswold Home Care for Berks County, we provide in-home care services like personal care, companionship, and homemaking. If you’re in need of a break, we can support you through respite care, and we offer 24-hour home care and dementia care support as well. Give us a call to learn more!