No Stigma, Just CARE: Why Mental Health Awareness Matters

Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to recognize the importance of accessible, compassionate mental health care. At Gloria Gates CARE, we believe mental health is just as important as physical health, and everyone deserves support, understanding, and access to quality care without stigma.

Since 1949, Mental Health America has dedicated this month to raising awareness, encouraging open conversations, and reminding people to care for their mental health.

Why Mental Health Awareness Matters

Even though mental health is just as important as physical health, it’s still often ignored or misunderstood.

Consider these statistics:

• 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year.
• 1 in 20 adults experience serious mental illness annually.
• 1 in 6 U.S. teens has a mental health condition, yet only half receive treatment.
• 50% of mental illnesses begin by age 14.
• In 2o23, 20% of high school students seriously considered suicide.

These numbers represent real people; friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, and classmates who may be struggling silently and in need of support. Despite the overwhelming need for care, nearly 30 million people across the United States still lack access to affordable, comprehensive mental health and substance use treatment.

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), up to 75% of primary care appointments involve mental or behavioral concerns. Research also shows that nearly 90% of people with mental health conditions receive care within primary care settings rather than specialty behavioral clinics.

At Gloria Gates CARE, we recognize the importance of integrating mental health support directly into the care experience.

As Gloria Gates CARE Therapist Courtney Blair, LCSW, share:

“Mental health awareness is not just about recognizing mental health issues; it is about creating an environment where individuals feel supported and understood. At Gloria Gates CARE, we are passionate about erasing the stigma surrounding mental health. For us, mental health awareness is a priority every month.”

How Gloria Gates CARE Supports Mental Health

We are committed to normalizing conversations about mental health and proactively supporting our members through compassionate, whole-person care.

As part of our rooming process, we routinely conduct mental health screenings to help identify concerns early and improve the overall member experience. When a mental health need is identified, our primary care providers address it immediately by discussing concerns during the visit and connecting members with appropriate resources and support.

Within or integrated care model, members have direct access to our Social Worker and, when appropriate, referrals for one-site outpatient therapy with our Licensed Social Workers.

Approximately 10% of our members currently receive onesite mental health therapy services. The most common concerns we help address include depression, anxiety, grief, and loss, relationship stressors, trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Mental health therapy provides individuals with the opportunity to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with a licensed professional trained to guide them toward healthier coping strategies, personal growth, and positive change.

Real Stories of Healing and Growth

We are proud to share two authentic experiences from members who generously gave permission to share their stories.

Chris’s Story

Chris R. has been a patient of Dr. Zane Gates for many years and has participated in therapy with Courtney Blair, LCSW. Chris describes his experiences with therapy as life-changing, helping him embrace happiness and recognize that he deserves to live a fulfilling life.

“It’s important to establish and practice your daily routine to help reduce stress and anxiety,” Chris shares.

Through therapy, Chris has learned to set realistic goals, creating a stronger sense of accomplishment and confidence in his daily life.

“Therapy has helped me understand and accept my past, which is leading me to more positive present and future experiences.”

Chris also encourages others to seek support without shame or fear when they need help.

Kieran’s Story 

Kieran L. was referred to therapy by her Gloria Gates CARE provider and has been working with Courtney Blair, LCSW, to focus on personal growth, resilience, and emotional well-being.

Since the beginning of therapy, Kieran says she has gained valuable insight into managing her anxiety and setting healthier boundaries.

“I’ve learned that the anxiety I carried for so long was not in control of me — I am in control of it.”

Mental Health Matters Every Month

At Gloria Gates CARE, we believe mental health care should be accessible, compassionate, and stigma-free. Mental health awareness is not limited to one month of the year — it is an ongoing commitment to supporting the well-being of our members, families and communities.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental heath concerns, our CARE Team is here to help. Together, we can continue building a community where seeking support is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.