In May, We Celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month!

Did you know that 1 in 5 people experience a mental health illness in their lifetime? According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, 43.8 million adults experience mental illness in a given year. So, if you ever find yourself in this bracket just know that you are not alone.

"Break The Stigma"

{<https://www.hrcsb.org/may-mental-health-awareness-month/>}

There are many different types of mental illnesses; but that does not mean go around self-diagnosing people unless you are a professional. Ask for help. Ask for guidance. #AskEmpress TELL SOMEBODY, please. Use this trauma-informed support blog & forum as an opportunity to ask questions & share thoughts that you always wanted to share, but always held back for whatever reason. That's what it's all about: a safe space.

Studies have shown that 64% of domestic violence survivors and up to 94% of sexual assault survivors experience PTSD. It is critical to offer survivors high-quality mental health and support services that recognize the pervasiveness [or spreading] of trauma and its impact on survivors* I'm sure this fits for all survivors of trauma-induced experiences that need support one way or another. That's why through the Trauma-Informed | Empress Detroit Blog, we support healing and empowerment through faith that {we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us -Philippians 4:13}

Just like there are different types of mental illnesses, there are various versions of trauma as well. Here is a song that has helped me understand my feelings through experiencing secondary/or vicarious trauma as a victim advocate in the legal system & coming to understand the true definitions of assault & abuse:

JUST TI'ED!

Please share music or creative pieces that helped you or someone you know through a tough time, here, thank you: <https://www.empress313.com/let-s-talk-tough-topics>

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For serious mental health concerns, please see your primary-care provider for referrals.

If you are noticing a change in you or a loved one's behavior, here is a free & quick mental health screening, provided by Mental Health America;

<http://mhascreening.org/>

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*Office on Violence Against Women(2013, May 31) Recognizing National Mental Health Awareness Month and the Importance of Trauma-Informed Care. U.S. Department of Justice. <https://www.justice.gov/archives/ovw/blog/recognizing-national-mental-health-awareness-month-and-importance-trauma-informed-care>