Why mental health matters for our clients, our staff, and our community—this month and every month
By Jaime Larry, Director of QSP Services, MAC Midwest
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year, we are reminded more than ever that mental health is a global issue. It is not just a Minnesota issue. It is not just an autism issue. It is something that touches every community, every family, and every workplace—including our own team here at MAC Midwest.
As we expand our reach to provide more behavioral health and mental health services across the Midwest, we are paying attention to the data and to the people behind it.
Mental Health in the U.S. and Worldwide
- 33 percent of people in the U.S. experience anxiety or depression
- 1 in 4 people globally will face a mental health condition in their lifetime
- 30 percent of adults report that their mental well-being declined during the COVID-19 pandemic
- Depression and anxiety cost the global economy 3 trillion dollars each year in lost productivity
These numbers are staggering and reflect an urgent call to action.
Mental Health Challenges Often Begin Young
- 75 percent of mental health issues begin before age 25
- 1 in 6 youth aged 6 to 17 experience a diagnosable mental health disorder each year
- Depression, anxiety, and suicide rates were already rising among teens before COVID-19
- Girls are disproportionately affected by adolescent mental health concerns
Autism and Mental Health: The Overlap Is Too Big to Ignore
Studies show that 70 to 95 percent of autistic individuals live with at least one co-occurring mental health condition. Here is what that can look like:
- ADHD affects 26 to 65 percent
- Anxiety disorders affect 1.5 to 54 percent
- Depression affects 2.5 to 47 percent
These numbers are not just statistics. They represent the challenges, resilience, and growth of the people we serve.
Mental Health Awareness at MAC Midwest
As we grow our mental health programming and supports for both clients and staff, we are holding two truths:
- What we are doing now is making a difference
- Where we are going will change lives
Mental health services in Minnesota and beyond must be trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and inclusive. That is the standard we are working toward at MAC Midwest—not just during Mental Health Awareness Month, but every day.
A Challenge for May: Invest in Your Own Well-Being
If you are reading this, we encourage you to check in with yourself. Are you resting enough? Connecting with others? Setting boundaries? Getting support when you need it?
Self-care is not selfish. It is survival. And sometimes, it is the first step toward healing.
Let us keep doing this work together.
Mental Health Resources for May and Beyond
