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Dear Readers,
Mental Health America of Illinois (MHAI) (formerly the Mental
Health Association in Illinois) is proud to partner with the Daily Herald
for the 15th year to celebrate Mental Health Month — May — with the
"Partnership for Mental Health Progress," a special newspaper section
designed to educate and inform the public about mental and emotional
disorders and their treatment. For the past 15 years, the Daily Herald’s
"Partnership for Mental Health Progress" has set the standard for excellence
in reporting and writing about timely mental health issues. The
edition has helped inform the public, empower consumers and remind
readers about the importance of taking care of your mental health.
Mental health is an essential part of each person’s overall health and
wellness. At times, we all face challenges that test us and put our mental
health at risk. When it comes to managing the day-to-day pressures of
life, building strong connections with others is a proven way to protect
your mental health and well-being.
Did you know that people with little social support experience more
severe illnesses and slower recovery than those with strong support? Or
that people who feel valued and cared for are at a reduced risk for disease?
Our message to you is to Get Connected to friends & family, to your
community and to professional help when necessary.
In this year's section, you will find information about important and
current issues impacting your mental health and well-being. You will hear
about the launch of an exciting new public awareness campaign supported
by the Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Mental
Health & the Illinois Children's Mental Health Partnership — Say It
Out Loud. The Say It Out Loud campaign promotes mental health as a
vital component of the well-being of every child and adult, and encourages
everyone in Illinois to take steps to promote good mental health in
themselves and others.
You will get an update on the progress of the social and emotional
learning (SEL) standards being implemented by the Illinois State Board of
Education and local school districts, and gain insight about the SEL goals
of helping children and adults acquire the skills to recognize and manage
emotions, develop caring and positive relationships, make responsible decisions
and deal with challenging situations appropriately and effectively.
You also will hear ideas on how to create mentally healthy work
environments, and the actions we can all take to keep our minds and
bodies young as we age. In addition, you will hear the brave stories of
those continuing to cope with the emotional trauma of the Northern
Illinois University tragedy this past February, as well as learn of the many
organizations and professionals who are connected to your community
who are devoted to promoting good mental health and working for better
care and treatment.
MHAI, the only statewide, mental health advocacy organization
concerned with the entire spectrum of mental and emotional disorders,
works hard each year to carry out our mission to promote mental health,
prevent mental illnesses, and improve care and treatment for persons
suffering from mental and emotional disorders. Since 1909, MHAI has
advocated for you, your families and your neighbors through our important
work.
I encourage you and your families to Get
Connected this May and stay in tune with
your mental health and well-being throughout
the year. I ask you to become MHAI's partner
in helping to raise awareness about the importance
of mental health in your communities.
Most Sincerely,
Carol Wozniewski
MHAI Executive Director
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