Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of emotional and psychological well-being.
At Connect2Health, we are committed to supporting underserved, underinsured, and under-resourced communities by providing bilingual mental health resources that empower individuals to take charge of their mental health. Whether it’s understanding the signs, learning how to navigate available services, or simply knowing you’re not alone—there is help out there. Please seek help.
Mental health matters, and together, we can build stronger, healthier communities.
Please take a moment to read our Mental Health Awareness blog, where you’ll find helpful information, support tips, and important insights. Be sure to click on the links within the blog—many will take you directly to helplines and support services you can reach out to for immediate help.
If you prefer, you can also email us at contact@connect2health.org or use the Contact Us form on our website. We’ll be more than happy to speak with you, guide you to the right resources, and help you find the support you need.
You are not alone—help is out there, and we’re here to walk with you.
Why is this important?
Mental health is the component of behavioral health that includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.¹ It is a state of well-being that enables us to cope with the stresses of life, realize our abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to our community.²
Mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health.
Mental health is closely linked to physical health.
For example, depression increases the risk for many types of long-lasting (chronic) physical conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Similarly, the presence of chronic conditions can increase the risk of developing a mental health condition. Addressing both mental and physical health needs can improve overall well-being.
Mental health is not simply the absence of a mental health condition—it is also about the presence of well-being and the ability to thrive.
Many factors influence our ability to thrive and experience optimal well-being, such as family and community relationships, access to opportunities, and environmental circumstances.
You can experience positive well-being even if you are living with a mental health condition. Having access to effective treatment to help manage symptoms—along with safe, stable, and nurturing relationships and environments—can help.
People who do not have a mental health condition may still face challenges to their mental health. Taking care of our mental health is important at every stage of life.
Stages of Life and Mental Health:
-
Early and middle childhood (birth–11 years old):
Mental health in childhood includes reaching developmental and emotional milestones and learning healthy social skills and how to cope when there are problems. Children who experience good mental health have a positive quality of life and can function well at home, in school, socially, and in their communities.
-
Adolescence (12–17 years old):
Adolescence is a unique and formative time when many health behaviors and habits are established and carried over into adulthood. It is also a time of important developmental changes. Physical, emotional, and social challenges—including exposure to poverty or violence—can make adolescents vulnerable to mental health problems.
-
Young adulthood (18–26 years old):
Early adulthood can come with major transitions, such as entering college or the workforce, securing housing, or starting a family. Positive mental health and well-being in young adulthood can help individuals meet these transitional challenges successfully.
-
Middle adulthood (27–64 years old):
In middle adulthood, individuals may face life stressors related to jobs, parenting, caregiving, and relationships.
-
Older adulthood (65+ years old):
As people age, they may experience life changes that impact their mental health, such as retirement, coping with a serious illness, or losing a loved one. Some may experience feelings of grief, social isolation, or loneliness.
Risk Factors and Protective Factors
Mental health is influenced by many factors at multiple levels—individual, family, community, and society. Risk factors increase the possibility of experiencing poor mental health, while protective factors increase the likelihood of experiencing positive mental health.
Examples of Risk Factors:
-
Social drivers such as interpersonal and institutional discrimination
-
Lack of access to housing, healthcare, or education
-
Limited access to employment and economic opportunities
-
Adverse childhood experiences and other types of interpersonal violence
-
Social isolation
-
Poor emotional well-being or coping skills
-
Ongoing or chronic medical conditions (e.g., traumatic brain injury, cancer, or diabetes)
-
Substance use (alcohol or drugs)
Examples of Protective Factors:
-
Access to quality employment, housing, and education
-
Strong social connections and stable, positive relationships
-
Positive coping skills
-
Living in safe communities with access to preventive care and mental and physical health services
Not all people exposed to risk factors will experience mental distress. Likewise, those without known risk factors may still experience mental distress or develop a mental health condition. However, studies show that we can improve mental health overall by collectively working at all levels to reduce risk factors and promote protective factors, especially during critical developmental stages such as childhood and adolescence.²
Mental Health Conditions:
People who experience mental health symptoms that are serious, persistent, and interfere with daily functioning may have a mental health condition.
Mental health conditions are among the most common health conditions in the United States. Common examples include major depressive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), panic disorder, and others.
-
Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. adults (58.7 million people) live with a mental health condition.
-
Nearly 1 in 20 U.S. adults (14.6 million people) live with a serious mental health condition (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression) that significantly interferes with the ability to carry out life’s activities.
-
1 in 7 children ages 3 to 17 (8 million children) has a current diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition.
A person may experience more than one mental health condition at the same time. These conditions may be short-term or long-term, and there is no single cause. The good news: people living with a mental health condition can get better, recover, and thrive. Support and treatment are available, and many mental health conditions can be prevented or managed effectively.
Please seek it. Mental health matters, and together, we can build stronger, healthier communities.
Please take a moment to read our Mental Health Awareness blog, where you’ll find helpful information, support tips, and important insights. Be sure to click on the links within the blog—many will take you directly to helplines and support services you can reach out to for immediate help.
If you prefer, you can also email us at contact@connect2health.org or use the Contact Us form on our website. We’ll be more than happy to speak with you, guide you to the right resources, and help you find the support you need.
You are not alone, help is out there, and we are here to walk with you.
Caring for Yourself and Others
Mental health resources and hotlines for individuals and families to reach out to for support.
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the importance of emotional and psychological well-being.
At Connect2Health, we are committed to supporting underserved, underinsured, and under-resourced communities by providing bilingual mental health resources that empower individuals to take charge of their mental health. Whether it’s understanding the signs, learning how to navigate available services, or simply knowing you’re not alone—there is help out there. Please seek help.
Mental health matters, and together, we can build stronger, healthier communities.
Please take a moment to read our Mental Health Awareness blog, where you’ll find helpful information, support tips, and important insights. Be sure to click on the links within the blog—many will take you directly to helplines and support services you can reach out to for immediate help.
If you prefer, you can also email us at contact@connect2health.org or use the Contact Us form on our website. We’ll be more than happy to speak with you, guide you to the right resources, and help you find the support you need.
You are not alone—help is out there, and we’re here to walk with you.
Why is this important?
Mental health is the component of behavioral health that includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.¹ It is a state of well-being that enables us to cope with the stresses of life, realize our abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to our community.²
Mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health.
Mental health is closely linked to physical health.
For example, depression increases the risk for many types of long-lasting (chronic) physical conditions, like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Similarly, the presence of chronic conditions can increase the risk of developing a mental health condition. Addressing both mental and physical health needs can improve overall well-being.
Mental health is not simply the absence of a mental health condition—it is also about the presence of well-being and the ability to thrive.
Many factors influence our ability to thrive and experience optimal well-being, such as family and community relationships, access to opportunities, and environmental circumstances.
You can experience positive well-being even if you are living with a mental health condition. Having access to effective treatment to help manage symptoms—along with safe, stable, and nurturing relationships and environments—can help.
People who do not have a mental health condition may still face challenges to their mental health. Taking care of our mental health is important at every stage of life.
Stages of Life and Mental Health:
-
Early and middle childhood (birth–11 years old):
Mental health in childhood includes reaching developmental and emotional milestones and learning healthy social skills and how to cope when there are problems. Children who experience good mental health have a positive quality of life and can function well at home, in school, socially, and in their communities.
-
Adolescence (12–17 years old):
Adolescence is a unique and formative time when many health behaviors and habits are established and carried over into adulthood. It is also a time of important developmental changes. Physical, emotional, and social challenges—including exposure to poverty or violence—can make adolescents vulnerable to mental health problems.
-
Young adulthood (18–26 years old):
Early adulthood can come with major transitions, such as entering college or the workforce, securing housing, or starting a family. Positive mental health and well-being in young adulthood can help individuals meet these transitional challenges successfully.
-
Middle adulthood (27–64 years old):
In middle adulthood, individuals may face life stressors related to jobs, parenting, caregiving, and relationships.
-
Older adulthood (65+ years old):
As people age, they may experience life changes that impact their mental health, such as retirement, coping with a serious illness, or losing a loved one. Some may experience feelings of grief, social isolation, or loneliness.
Risk Factors and Protective Factors
Mental health is influenced by many factors at multiple levels—individual, family, community, and society. Risk factors increase the possibility of experiencing poor mental health, while protective factors increase the likelihood of experiencing positive mental health.
Examples of Risk Factors:
-
Social drivers such as interpersonal and institutional discrimination
-
Lack of access to housing, healthcare, or education
-
Limited access to employment and economic opportunities
-
Adverse childhood experiences and other types of interpersonal violence
-
Social isolation
-
Poor emotional well-being or coping skills
-
Ongoing or chronic medical conditions (e.g., traumatic brain injury, cancer, or diabetes)
-
Substance use (alcohol or drugs)
Examples of Protective Factors:
-
Access to quality employment, housing, and education
-
Strong social connections and stable, positive relationships
-
Positive coping skills
-
Living in safe communities with access to preventive care and mental and physical health services
Not all people exposed to risk factors will experience mental distress. Likewise, those without known risk factors may still experience mental distress or develop a mental health condition. However, studies show that we can improve mental health overall by collectively working at all levels to reduce risk factors and promote protective factors, especially during critical developmental stages such as childhood and adolescence.²
Mental Health Conditions:
People who experience mental health symptoms that are serious, persistent, and interfere with daily functioning may have a mental health condition.
Mental health conditions are among the most common health conditions in the United States. Common examples include major depressive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), panic disorder, and others.
-
Nearly 1 in 4 U.S. adults (58.7 million people) live with a mental health condition.
-
Nearly 1 in 20 U.S. adults (14.6 million people) live with a serious mental health condition (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression) that significantly interferes with the ability to carry out life’s activities.
-
1 in 7 children ages 3 to 17 (8 million children) has a current diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition.
A person may experience more than one mental health condition at the same time. These conditions may be short-term or long-term, and there is no single cause. The good news: people living with a mental health condition can get better, recover, and thrive. Support and treatment are available, and many mental health conditions can be prevented or managed effectively.
Please seek it. Mental health matters, and together, we can build stronger, healthier communities.
Please take a moment to read our Mental Health Awareness blog, where you’ll find helpful information, support tips, and important insights. Be sure to click on the links within the blog—many will take you directly to helplines and support services you can reach out to for immediate help.
If you prefer, you can also email us at contact@connect2health.org or use the Contact Us form on our website. We’ll be more than happy to speak with you, guide you to the right resources, and help you find the support you need.
You are not alone, help is out there, and we are here to walk with you.
Caring for Yourself and Others
Mental health resources and hotlines for individuals and families to reach out to for support.
National Minority Health Month
This April, we are proud to recognize National Minority Health Month (NMHM) — a time to raise awareness about the importance of improving the health of racial and ethnic minority communities.
The 2025 theme — “Health Unlocked: Access, Alignment, Action” — reminds us that our cultures, communities, and connections all play a powerful role in shaping our overall health and well-being.
Why is this important?
Health is about more than just doctor visits — it’s also about access to healthy food, safe neighbourhoods, education, and strong support systems. These are called Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) — the conditions in which we live, learn, work, and play.
When we work together to understand and address these factors, we can create healthier communities for everyone.
How Can You Be the Source of Better Health?
Everyone — students, parents, teachers, and community members — can help:
-
Learn about healthy habits and share them with others
-
Celebrate diversity in your school and neighbourhood
-
Get involved in community service and health awareness programs
-
Support inclusive communication — making sure information is accessible to all
-
Spread kindness, empathy, and encouragement
Working Together to Address Health Disparities
The CDC’s Office of Health Equity has shared inspiring examples of how communities can work together to reduce health disparities:
-
Sharing accurate health information through trusted sources
-
Building trust in communities through outreach and education
-
Creating accessible resources for people with disabilities and diverse backgrounds
Real-Life Examples of Health Equity in Action
The CDC’s Office of Health Equity highlights how working together can make a big difference in improving health for all communities. Here are a few powerful examples:
1. Building Trust through Culturally Relevant
Communication
Sharing accurate and helpful information in ways that matter to specific communities — like using multimedia channels (social media, radio, and local events) — has helped Latino communities stay informed, build trust in vaccines, and fight misinformation.
2. Disability is an Intersectional Issue
Disability affects people across all communities — including those already facing health challenges or marginalization. Understanding this helps bring people together and create more inclusive support systems.
3. Health Equity is More than Just Translation
Communicating health information goes beyond simply translating words into other languages. It’s about making sure the message feels relevant and relatable to the people it’s meant for. That means including the right voices, stories, and perspectives from within the community.
March is National Kidney Month, a time to raise awareness about kidney disease and the importance of taking charge of your health. This year’s focus is on managing kidney disease and the factors that contribute to kidney health.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects around 35.5 million people and is often overlooked until symptoms appear. As CKD is progressive, it can lead to serious health complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. The good news is that adopting a healthy lifestyle can help manage CKD and prevent complications from worsening.
Here are some healthy lifestyle habits to support kidney health:
-
🩺 Meet regularly with your healthcare team – Stay connected with your doctor through in-person or telehealth visits.
-
💪 Manage blood pressure & monitor glucose levels – Work with your doctor to keep your blood pressure and glucose in check.
-
🍎 Take medications as prescribed – Avoid NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)and ensure your doctor and pharmacist are aware of all the medications you take.
-
⚖️ Aim for a healthy weight – Develop a meal and weight-loss plan with your doctor.
-
🏃♂️ Reduce stress & be active – Engage in stress-reducing activities and get 30 minutes of physical activity daily.
-
🛏️ Get enough sleep – Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
-
🚭 Quit smoking – Take steps to quit for better health.
Small changes can have a huge impact on your kidney health!
To learn more about kidney health and access valuable resources, visit our Health Information Page - 'Resource Prescription Page - Here'
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming 1 in every 5 lives in 2022. It affects people from all walks of life, particularly those with high blood pressure—a condition that nearly half of U.S. adults face. But the good news is, heart disease is largely preventable with healthy habits and the right care.
At Connect2Health, we’re here to help you take control of your heart health. Here are some key steps to prevent heart disease:
Click on the below links to learn more.
-
Preventing High Blood Pressure: Keep your blood pressure in a healthy range by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a variety of foods, and avoiding smoking.
-
ABCS of Heart Health: This simple mnemonic from Million Hearts® helps you remember key steps to take care of your heart: Aspirin when needed, Blood pressure control, Cholesterol management, and Smoking cessation.
-
Live to the Beat: This campaign helps you take the necessary steps to prevent heart disease and stroke.
Additionally, we have some helpful resources for managing blood pressure and maintaining heart health. These resources are available in both English and Spanish:
-
Managing My Blood Pressure: A printable list of questions to ask your healthcare provider to better manage your blood pressure. (Also available in Spanish)
-
My Blood Pressure Log: A printable log you can use to track your blood pressure measurements at home. (Also available in Spanish)
-
My First Blood Pressure Visit: Record key blood pressure information before your doctor’s appointments. (Also available in Spanish)
Let’s prioritize our heart health this February and take steps that can save lives. We are here to support you with resources and education to help prevent heart disease and live a longer, healthier life.
Did you know that 1 in every 33 babies is born with a birth defect? These conditions range from cleft palate and clubfoot to genetic disorders like Fragile X syndrome and phenylketonuria. While the causes, severity, and treatments vary widely, raising awareness is crucial to improving prevention and supporting those affected.
It’s also important to reframe how we think about birth defects—not as “defects” but as variations that make us unique.
Words matter, and at Connect2Health, we focus on empowering families with information, resources, and support to navigate these challenges.
💡 Explore our Maternal Health Section to learn more about birth defects, prevention strategies, and resources for expecting parents. Click here to stay informed and help spread awareness:
Visit the 'Health Information Hub -Maternal Health Page.
Knowledge saves lives—together, we can create healthier futures for every child.
🧠 Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. At Connect2Health, we believe in increasing awareness, reducing stigma, and ensuring access to help when it’s needed.
🚩 Signs of an Alcohol Problem
Recognizing the early signs of AUD is key to prevention and recovery. Warning signs may include:
-
Drinking more or for longer than intended
-
Inability to cut down or stop drinking
-
Spending a lot of time drinking or recovering
-
Cravings or urges to drink
-
Continuing to drink despite problems with family, work, or health
-
Giving up activities or responsibilities because of drinking
🧠 A Note About Stigma
Shame and stigma often prevent individuals from seeking help. AUD is a chronic but treatable medical condition, not a moral failing. Creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment is essential to healing and long-term wellness.
⏳ When Is It Time for Treatment?
If drinking is interfering with life at home, school, work, or relationships, or if there's a pattern of risky behavior, it may be time to seek help
💡 Treatment Options
Treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Options include:
-
Behavioral therapies
-
Peer support groups
-
Medications approved by the FDA to treat alcohol dependence
-
Inpatient and outpatient care programs
-
Telehealth and virtual support options
👩⚕️ Treatments Led by Health Care Providers
Health professionals can help evaluate and personalize a care plan that may include:
-
Motivational Interviewing
-
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
-
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
More on this: Find Treatment by NIAAA
💊 What Medications Are Available for AUD?
Three FDA-approved medications—Naltrexone, Acamprosate, and Disulfiram—have been shown to help people stop or reduce drinking and avoid relapse.
✅ Tips for Selecting the Right Treatment
-
Match the treatment type to personal needs and goals
-
Look for licensed professionals or accredited programs
-
Consider ongoing support and accessibility
-
Prioritize approaches that respect privacy, mental health, and co-occurring conditions
-
🔄 Recovery Is an Ongoing Process
Recovery is a journey that often includes setbacks and progress. Consistent support, community, and access to health care can make a lasting difference.
📎 Resources to Explore
As cold, flu, and respiratory illness season approaches, being prepared can make all the difference in managing sickness and keeping your household healthy. Stocking up on essential medications, supplies, and pantry staples ensures you're ready to address symptoms as soon as they arise. Vaccinations remain a crucial first line of defense, reducing the severity and likelihood of infection. Creating a plan for isolation, childcare, and household management can minimize disruptions when illness strikes. Simple measures like maintaining good hygiene, disinfecting common areas, and boosting immunity through healthy habits further protect your family. By planning ahead, you can focus on recovery and well-being without the added stress of last-minute preparation.
Visit our Community Resource Hub to explore 7 Ways to Prepare Yourself and Your Household Before Sickness Strikes and discover practical tips to stay ready and resilient during cold and flu season! Our Community Resource Hub contains tons of useful information about a wide range of health topics, including general wellness, preventative care, chronic conditions like coronary heart disease, heart attacks, liver health, and managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes.
Regular wellness checks are crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing serious conditions from escalating. These routine visits allow for early detection of potential health issues, effective management of existing conditions, and valuable advice on sustaining a healthy lifestyle. Proactive health management not only helps in addressing concerns before they become major problems but also enhances your overall quality of life and peace of mind.
At Connect2Health, we are dedicated to making healthcare accessible to all. That’s why we have developed our Community Resource Hub, a comprehensive center that serves as a one-stop shop for accessing a wide range of preventative and essential healthcare services. Our hub features locations that offer sliding scale payments and accept various types of Medicare, Medicaid, and other insurance plans. We also provide low-cost and free healthcare services to ensure that everyone can access the care they need.
We warmly invite you to explore our Community Resource Hub and schedule your wellness visit today. Taking this important step is essential for your health and well-being. If you need any assistance, please visit our Contact Us page and leave your phone number or email. We will gladly help you connect with the nearest community health center to access the services you need. Your health is important to us—don’t wait to take care of yourself.
August is National Immunization Awareness Month, an annual observance to highlight the importance of vaccination for people of all ages. Unfortunately, according to the World Health Organization, gender related barriers and gender inequality can prevent people from getting vaccinated. Gender disparities, limited access to healthcare, cultural barriers, and socio-economic constraints can hinder women's vaccination rates. Additionally, during pregnancy, women may encounter uncertainty about vaccine safety and availability.
Ensuring vaccine equity for all especially the underserved communitties requires targeted efforts, awareness campaigns, and strengthening healthcare systems to overcome these challenges and provide equal access to life-saving immunization for all
Download this pdf document to learn more about the vaccination resources that are available to you at now or low cost.
Burton Barr Central Library serves as an overnight Respite center and is open 24/7
The City of Phoenix is expanding public heat relief options this year. For the first time, Phoenix offers two heat respite centers that will be accessible overnight. Now through Sept. 30, Burton Barr Central Library will operate as a 24-hour respite center.
Additionally, the Senior Opportunities West Senior Center at 7th Avenue and Buckeye Road will offer overnight respite hours daily from 6 p.m. to 5 a.m.
Other cooling centers also have extended hours in 2024. Yucca, Cholla, and Harmon Libraries will now stay open as cooling centers Mondays through Saturdays until 10 p.m. On Sundays, these three locations will open as cooling centers from noon to 10 p.m
All 17 Phoenix Public Libraries now serve as cooling centers during their regular business hours.
Burton Barr Central Library
1221 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ United States
Wednesday, May 1, 2024 12:00 AM - Monday, September 30, 2024 12:00 AM (MST)
Categories
Community Event
When temperatures heat up, it’s time for fun in the sun, right? Well, not always.
Read this article from Banner Health to learn more about:
For related articles, check out:
Watching a child suffer, even from something as minor as a cold or scraped knee, can be incredibly painful for any parent. The challenge of navigating a childhood cancer diagnosis and treatment, with its many uncertainties and potential outcomes, is even more profound.
Though childhood cancer is less common than adult cancers, it remains the leading cause of disease-related death in children. Early detection is crucial, as it provides the best chance for children to overcome this illness.
To learn more about the importance of early detection and our efforts to support families affected by childhood cancer, visit Banner Health's Childhood Cancer Awareness.
Discrimination and stigmas that prevent LGBTQ people from seeking care
Members of the LGBTQ community face homophobia, transphobia and other stigmas that negatively affect their desire to seek out quality health care. These negative stigmas and discriminatory practices can contribute to poor physical and mental health. LGBTQ people may be less likely to seek out inclusive health care if they experience discrimination in a health care setting. Doctor’s offices must work to create inclusive care environments that help members of the LGBTQ community feel nurtured and safe.
Here are several stigmas that prevent LGBTQ people from seeking care:
Anxiety about cost. Not all LGBTQ people have insurance coverage, or the ability to pay high insurance bills.
Poor experiences. Having one negative experience in a health care setting can negatively impact a person’s desire to seek out care again.
Lack of culturally and educationally competent medical professionals. Not all medical professionals are informed about LGBTQ health and they can sometimes ask naïve questions that come off as offensive.
Fear of “coming out” as gay, queer, bisexual or trans to a medical professional. Not every person feels comfortable “coming out” to a stranger, for fear of rejection, or worse.
Homophobia/transphobia. Some LGBTQ patients have faced outright discrimination and don’t want to put themselves in a situation to experience that again.