Celebrating Mental Illness Awareness in October

The month of October honors people living with mental illness in diverse ways...

In fact, in 1945 the United States government made the first week of October, "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." However, in 1962 the word "Physically" was removed to honor all people with disabilities. And in 1988, the government expanded the calendar recognition to promote the entire month of October and also changed the name of the holiday to National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and the theme for 2013: "Because we are EQUAL to the task." Campaigns to raise awareness around disability employment issues, and to celebrate the diverse contributions of workers living with disabilities is carried out during this month.

Moreover, the certified peer specialist (CPS) position recognizes and supports people living with mental illness who want to work with peers affected by mental illness by becoming certified as a peer counselor. CPSs learn about the stages of recovery, how to communicate with and advocate for peers, and to facilitate self-help meetings among other duties and responsibilities. To learn more about this certification visit: www.gacps.org

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is a grassroots non-profit organization that is dedicated to providing advocacy, education, support, and research to children and adults affected by mental illness. Each year NAMI celebrates mental illness awareness month during the first full week of October. This year, NAMI is celebrating mental illness awareness week (MIAW) October 6-12, 2013. Please support mental health events and programs in your area especially this week!

Atlanta Area: Attend the Whole Health & Wellness Conference on Saturday, October 12th from 1-4 PM at the College Park Recreation Center in College Park, Georgia. Furthermore, I will share my experience living with mental illness among other presenters. Founder and visionary of the conference is Mrs. Kenya Rucker Phillips. For details about this conference visit the website: www.whwcatlanta.com