MAY IS NATIONAL MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH
National Mental Health Awareness Month in May focuses on bringing tools, resources, and education to the general public
Each year Mental Health America, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and other mental health organizations across the country organize events, webinars, and more to improve mental health access across the country.
Mental health is a hot topic. This is good news. It means the stigma for mental health issues is slowly going away. Mental health issues are finally getting the attention they deserve.
Healthcare workers and individuals feel they can discuss mental health more openly. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t still work to do, however.
As a whole, we often misunderstand mental health because it is hard to define.
Additionally, mental health includes several areas. These areas involve one’s social, emotional, and psychological well-being. Mental health affects thoughts, feelings, and actions. When one has positive mental health, they are better equipped to handle stress, be more productive, and realize their full potential.
While we focus on our physical wellbeing, the food we eat, exercise, and getting regular check-ups for vision and dental care, we often forget to take stock of our emotional and spiritual needs. Everyday demands take their toll.
HOW TO OBSERVE
#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth
Share the message. Taking care of our mental health is as normal as eating healthy, exercising, or even saving for the future. Share your story to help others understand that achieving mental health is a daily process.
If you or someone you know needs to seek assistance check out one of these resources:
Mental Health America
nami.org
mentalhealth.org
National Institutes of Mental Health
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration
American Psychiatric Association
You can also learn about these 5 Advocates Who Influenced Modern Mental Health Care.
Use #MentalHealthMonth to share on social media.
MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH HISTORY
Mental Health America created Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949 to provide Americans with tools and resources as part of their outreach program to improve mental health. Each year the campaign includes a theme.
Past campaign themes:
2020 – Tools 2 Thrive
2019 – 4 Mind 4 Body
2018 – Fitness 4 Mind 4 Body
2017 – Risky Business
2016 – Life with Mental Illness
2015 – B4 Stage 4
2014 – Mind Your Health
There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day with National Day Calendar!
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About FDCDC
FDCDC has a fundamental belief that poverty cycles can be broken by education, hard work and opportunity. We envision young boys and girls in Jacksonville growing up with dreams of becoming confident and successful citizens in their community. Our belief is if they are given the proper tools, resources and guidance they are more likely to fulfill their destiny.
FDCDC – Continuing the Legacy of Service
Please be reminded that the FDCDC is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization and all contributions are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Thank you in advance for your contribution and God Bless you and your family!
What We Are Doing
Money Smart Outreach
2014
Thanksgiving Baskets Outreach 2020
Toys For Tots Outreach
2020
Happenings
FDCDC College Scholarship
Applications for this year's FDCDC College Scholarship Program are closed. The winner will be announced, and the scholarship will be awarded during JHS award Ceremony on Thursday, May 13, 6:00 p.m., in the JHS cafeteria. The winner will also be featured in our June newsletter. We applaud all students who applied for this year's scholarship and we wish them well in their academic pursuits.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to all donors to our college scholarship fund. Our 2022 College Scholarship Campaign will begin in July 2021. We look forward to your continued support. If you have any questions, please contact Tracey Wallace at [email protected]
Historic Fred Douglass School Opening Provided a Pathway to Success for Black Students
M.B. Davis wrote in the 1956 yearbook, The Dragon. He wrote the following to the graduating class, "You have an excellent motto, 'The Door to Success is labeled PUSH.' I urge that you allow the meaning expressed in this motto to serve as an inspiration to you through the years to come. Your contacts and experiences at Fred Douglass High should give you a good foundation upon which to build a life of service to your community, your nation, and yourself. With every good wish, I am, yours truly, M.B. Davis."
Fred Douglass High School Success Stories
In follow up to the article recognizing pathways to success by FDHS, we want to highlight the many successful students from the historic FDHS. This month's featured success story is not an alumnus of FDHS, but several of her children are alumni. Since Mother's Day is celebrated in the month of May, we are featuring Mother Bennie Faye Brown's success story. Please submit information on other FDHS success stories in PDF format to [email protected]
News
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