Research shows two in five Americans have reported struggles with mental health since the coronavirus pandemic began. That has prompted local wellness officials to let northwest Ohioans know that help is available, and that they should not be reluctant to seek it. Concerns include unprecedented uncertainty, grief, and trauma. Officials are amplifying that message during May, recognized nationally as Mental Health Awareness Month. The National Alliance on Mental Illness, a national organization with an Ohio chapter, is also putting forth the 'You are not alone' campaign, which focuses on connecting people to resources available nearby. Daniel H. Gillison, Jr., NAMI CEO, said there is still work to be done despite growing signs of normalcy and the "light at the end of the tunnel" that has been setting in. "NAMI endeavors to turn the tragic and life-changing impact of COVID-19 into a spotlight on the growing need for systematic change in the mental health care system to meet the increased need as the world opens back up again," Mr. Gillison said in a statement. "The time is now to come together to improve mental health for all."
