Mental Health Awareness Month

Streamwood Behavioral Healthcare System Celebrates

"Mental Health Awareness Month"

Beginning in 1949, the United States has observed the month of May as "Mental Health Awareness Month." Through organized events and activities, awareness of the Mental Health needs for individuals and their families have been brought to the forefront of our daily lives. The focus for Streamwood Behavioral Healthcare System, the largest free-standing psychiatric facility for children and adolescents in the State of Illinois, this May was to raise awareness of mental health related concerns affecting young people in our community.

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, mental disorders are common in the United States and internationally. An estimated 22.1 percent of Americans ages 18 and older (1 out of 5 adults) suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year. Mental Disorders can also affect children. According to the National Mental Health Association (NMHA), mental health problems affect one in five young people.

At some point in one's life an individual will feel sadness, anxiety, worry, or have problems with sleeping. However, when these feelings become very intense, and last for long periods of time or interfere with school, friendships and other relationships, it may be a sign of mental illness. Streamwood Behavioral Healthcare System continues to strive to provide evidence-based, effective treatment and H.O.P.E. (Healthy Opportunities in a Peaceful Environment) for children, adolescents and young adults with Depression, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Anxiety, Operational Defiance, and a myriad of mental disorders identified in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM -V).

Streamwood Behavioral Healthcare System carried the mantra for Mental Health Awareness Month by hosting and facilitating trainings for parents and providers in the community. The following trainings were held in the Month of May in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month: Avoiding Power Struggles and Sharing Control, Diagnostic Statistical Manual V, Personality Disorders and Parent Training. SBHS understands that dealing with an emotional or behavioral health issue affects the person's entire support unit and not just the individual. It is important for us to empower families and the community with resources and knowledge about Mental Health.

Streamwood Behavioral Healthcare System has been in business for almost 25 years providing behavioral healthcare for children, adolescents, and young adults. Service Excellence and Customer Engagement are infused in the fabric and philosophy our system. The entire staff is dedicated to providing H.O.P.E. - Healthy Opportunities in a Peaceful Environment for all of those in our care.

For more information about Mental Health or our full continuum of behavioral health services, please visit our website at www.streamwoodhospital.com or call 1-800-272-7790.

Submitted By: Patricia McClure-Chessier & Olieth Lightbourne