Knox County Health Department Combats Stigmas During Mental Health Awareness Month

mental health awarenessThe Knox County Health Department is enlightening the community about mental health in celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month this May.

Public Health Administrator Michelle Fishburn says this month is a great time to combat negative stigmas about mental health.

Fishburn tells the WGIL Morning News that many people are ashamed to talk to anyone about their mental health issues, even when it is easily treated.

“Some interesting statistics just to start with is: 38% would hide a mental health problem from even their best friends and family,” says Fishburn. ” And 21 % would  would even avoid getting treatment because they were afraid of somebody finding out. And that’s a sad statistic, especially when you consider that some of those individuals have a very temporary mental health problem, and could be helped with just a short period of help from a counselor.”

The Knox County Health Department does mental health screenings as a part of their regular patient care. Fishburn says there are two counselors available at the Health Department if you or someone you know is in need of help.

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