National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Albany representative speaks on Mental Wellness Awareness Month

ALBANY, Ga. – January is Mental Wellness Awareness Month, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness has a few things to keep in mind for those looking to get a hold of their mental well-being.

A National Alliance on Mental Illness representative in Albany, Angela Patterson tells us that in 2024, it’s important for people to prioritize their mental well-being…

With their campaign phrase this year being “I am more than enough” with the goal of lending a hand to those in need.

“As all the organizations including NAMI, focuses on wellness, that includes support, education, having someone with the lived experience, that’s living successfully that says, ‘hey, I’ve been there,'” said Angela Patterson, Affiliate advocate, NAMI Albany.

In fact, in 2023’s Georgia legislative session, state lawmakers took a major step forward towards helping improve mental wellness.

“…Georgia recently passed a law, where if an insurance company covers physical health, they have to cover mental health in the same capacity that they would cover physical health. And, that right there is the Parity Act,” said Patterson.

And, there are a few things that Patterson tells us people can do to try and get a hold on their mental health in 2024.

“We’re really focusing on things like coping skills. Using positive coping skills, instead of someone reaching for something that may not be good for them either physically or mentally,” said Patterson.

But, even in the year 2024, one of the biggest hurdles towards helping people get into a better head space is still one of the easiest to identify…

Acknowledging that they aren’t in the right frame of mind.

“…So, bringing an awareness about mental health challenges is an excellent way to move from a diagnoses, a disease, and a disorder; so we’re trying to move towards bringing awareness, that people can live successfully…” said Patterson.

And, as the National Alliance on Mental Illness tries to do their part in the state of Georgia, they encourage anyone not in the right mindset to reach out to them.

If you feel the need to reach out to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, you can contact them at 229-329-1444.

Brian Roche reporting.

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