National Silence the Shame Day is a holiday that’s observed every May 5th and is designed to spark a conversation about being aware of your own mental health and is also designed to end the stigma that’s often associated with mental illness. It’s a day on which we can all work together to build mental health literacy, among not only individuals but also communities as well.

It’s also a day on which organizations reach out to communities to provide them with the information they need for that mental health literacy. Since many people face feel stigmatized when diagnosed with mental health challenges, it’s important for people to realize that they’re not alone and don’t have to live in silence.

The History Of National Silence The Shame Day

This holiday was first founded by The Hip-Hop Professional Foundation on May 5, 2017. They created this holiday to increase positive education concerning mental illnesses and to encourage people to openly talk about mental health and the challenges they face.

Some Quick Facts About Mental Health

Below are some quick facts about mental health that people might want to know more about. Let’s take a quick look at them before moving on to the observation of National Silence the Shame Day.

• Approximately 1 in 5 people will suffer from mental illness.
• Approximately 44 million Americans struggle with mental health problems.
• Depression is one of the leading causes of disability around the globe.

Observing National Silence The Shame Day

This holiday can be observed by attending a mental health fair, by having a mental health checkup with a professional, or by attending some counseling sessions. People can also find out what they can do to make a difference to people suffering from mental health challenges.

While observing this holiday, everyone should use the hashtag #SilenceTheShame in solidarity with those suffering from mental health challenges or the perceived stigma associated with them, and to spread the word about this holiday.