Mental Health Awareness Month



May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we want to recognize the relationship between mental health and domestic violence. Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior aimed at establishing power and control over an intimate partner, manifesting in physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. It can lead to mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Mental health disorders range from mild to severe, and many factors affect them. Stigma is a barrier to seeking help, and only 43% of people with mental illness receive treatment annually. Survivors of domestic violence face unique challenges. Mental health conditions can make individuals more susceptible to abuse, and abuse can exacerbate existing mental health issues. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner violence, sexual violence, or stalking. We need a holistic approach that addresses both issues concurrently and provides mental health support tailored to survivors while dismantling the root causes of abuse, like power imbalances and control dynamics. Let's advocate for comprehensive solutions prioritizing healing, empowerment, and justice for all survivors.

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Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This month, we celebrate the diverse cultures, rich histories, and invaluable contributions of the AAPI community. Throughout May, NYSCADV stands in solidarity with AAPI leaders, advocates, and organizations who work tirelessly to dismantle systemic oppression and discrimination. Let's participate in virtual activities and initiatives to celebrate AAPI communities. Together, we can raise awareness, celebrate diversity, and advocate for equality.

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Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Week

Native women and girls in the US face high rates of violence, with some reservations experiencing over ten times the national average for the murder of Native women. The National Week of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls/Peoples (MMIWG/P) is observed from May 1 to May 7, aiming to raise awareness and take action to recognize the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. The National Day of Action on May 5 is a day to honor the lives of those who were abducted or murdered and to acknowledge the staggering number of cases that remain unsolved. It is crucial to increase accountability of the systems and institutions that have failed to provide justice to the families of the missing and murdered.

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