The pandemic has proven time and time again just how much the state of our mental health can affect our overall well-being and physical health.

Over the past year, COVID-19 has severely impacted the mental health of Americans of all ages, races, and socioeconomic levels. The pandemic unleashed new levels of trauma, stress, and worry for millions of people. As a result, many Americans sought help for symptoms relating to mental illness for the first time in their lives.

If you are experiencing issues with your mental health, you are not alone — 1 in 5 Americans will experience mental illness within their lifetime. The CDC reports that in June 2020, 40% of U.S. adults reported struggling with mental health or substance abuse.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which was established back in 1949 and aims to decrease the stigma related to mental illnesses and connect Americans with the resources they need. We have put together a list of ideas and resources you can share with your family, friends, and community groups.

Don’t Know Where to Start?

According to Mental Health America, online screening is one of the quickest ways to determine if you are experiencing symptoms connected with a mental health condition. Click here to take the test. Once you complete the online assessment, you will receive access to information, resources, and tools. If you need immediate help, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. If you cannot call, text “MHA” to 741741, and you’ll be connected with a trained counselor from the Crisis Text Line.

Learn More About Mental Health Conditions

The more you learn about different mental health conditions, the more you’ll be able to help yourself, family members, and friends who are navigating difficult situations. Mental Health America has compiled an in-depth digital resource that allows you to seek more information about the most common mental health conditions, along with details on warning signs and guidelines to best help specific age groups.

Attend a Webinar or Take a Free Class

The Mental Health Association of San Francisco has several virtual events planned for May that are open to members of the community. Click here for a full list of events scheduled throughout the month. At this time, all meetings and events are being held in a virtual setting. In addition, San Mateo County’s health department also has several free virtual events planned, including yoga classes, film screenings, and more. Click here for more information.

Consider Joining a Grief Support Group

No matter when you lost your loved one — whether it was last year or 10 years ago — grief can come in waves and affect you in a variety of ways throughout different seasons of life. Cypress Lawn offers grief groups to the families we have served. Don’t hesitate to contact us to join a group, or we can connect you with local resources to help you through this tough time.

No matter when you need us, our caring team of professionals is here for your family. Whether you need help finding a grief support group, celebrating the life of a loved one, or planning ahead for the years to come, don’t hesitate to contact us.