May Matters: Centering Mental Health in the Fight Against Domestic and Sexual Violence
Recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month
May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month since 1949. We acknowledge that mental health plays a vital role in our overall health and wellbeing. Although YWCA Clark County is a domestic violence and sexual assault organization, we fully recognize that the impacts and effects of different systems of violence can and does include mental health. Mental health conditions can exist prior to a participant accessing the Y’s services but can also be a direct result of experienced domestic or sexual trauma. A common theme when supporting participants is that of bodily autonomy, which is also directly tied to mental health. This could include informed consent, confidentiality, access to low-barrier resources, and communication with members of a support team.
By highlighting the unique challenges that those with mental illnesses face, we can begin to open a discourse on how to destigmatize current norms and assumptions surrounding these struggles that often stem from misunderstanding and fear. Mental illnesses are extremely prevalent and should not be a conversation topic to shy away from but rather talked about to normalize seeking support.
The Numbers of Mental Health
We cannot discuss mental illness without recognizing and acknowledging how common it is and the additional barriers that those from marginalized communities face when attempting to access resources and support. Let’s take a closer look at some nation-wide statistics:
When zooming in on specific demographics, we can see that the prevalence of mental illness is higher among those with marginalized identities:
• 67% of people experiencing homelessness
• 50.2% of LGBTQIA+
• 26.6% of American Indian or Alaska Native
• 21.4% of Non-Hispanic Black or African American
Those with marginalized identities also have higher barriers when seeking support such as cultural/language barriers, medical racism, and general discrimination. This goes to further emphasize the importance of addressing mental illness with the intention of intersectionality. We must recognize the causes and responses as a part of the larger goal of holistic social-emotional support and care.
Sharing Your Story: Sample Questions & Call to Action
The power of storytelling can fuel connection, understanding, and hope for those navigating their own mental health path. Storytelling can be used as a therapeutic tool as well as destigmatize mental illness which then can set a path towards a cultural shift in how we view and respond to mental illnesses. We now offer these sample questions provided by NAMI to start a conversation, reflection, or action within your community and support systems.
What misconceptions about mental health do you encounter in your work?
What have you learned on your mental health journey?
How does your mental health impact how you show up within your community?
How do you help reduce stigma surrounding mental health?
““By sharing our stories and breaking the silence around mental health, we create a community of understanding, support, and healing. Let’s stand together to destigmatize mental illness and ensure everyone has access to the care they deserve.””
Mental Health Resources
Free Hotlines
Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988 (multilingual)
Trevor Project 24/7 Hotline for LGBTQIA+: 1-866-488-7386
YWCA Clark County: (360)-695-0501
Additional Resources
National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Information on mental illness.
Support resources for individuals, family members/caregivers, teens/kids, maternal and new parents, veterans and active duty, and culturally specific services
Lifeline Connections.
Short-term crisis residential services.
Stabilization program.
Outpatient services.
Substance use inpatient and outpatient services.
Support for youth and adults.
Wild Heart Society.
Virtual appointment options.
Group therapy.
Workshops.
LGBTQ+ care.