In 2022, the National Federation of Families updated the annual campaign name, changing the “a” from awareness to acceptance. This significant shift to "acceptance" speaks more directly to the goals of the campaign. Acceptance leverages the lessons of what our nation faced during the pandemic: we know there will be long-lasting adverse effects on mental health and wellbeing.

We know awareness is not enough. Each of us must take action to create lasting change. Every action - supporting a friend or loved one, practicing self-care, modeling wellness for others, or reaching out for help - matters. What will you do this May to inspire meaningful positive change for yourself, for your community, and for the children and youth in your life?

Accept. Advocate. Act.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an annual observance founded by Mental Health America in 1949, to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing, educate the public, reduce stigma and promote support for those affected by mental health conditions. Join Mental Health America’s #TurnAwarenessIntoAction campaign this May to help spread the word that the time to take action for our mental health is NOW. Learn more at mhanational.org/may #MHM2025

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.

National Military Appreciation Month is observed in May to recognize and honor the contributions of past and present service members. It's a time for the nation to publicly show its appreciation for those who serve in the military. 

Here are some ways to express your gratitude:



1. "Thank you for your service.": This is a widely accepted and impactful way to show appreciation. 
2. "I appreciate your commitment to serving our country.": This acknowledges their dedication.
3. "Thank you for all you do.": This is a general expression of gratitude.
4. "Thank you for your sacrifice.": This acknowledges the personal costs of military service. 
5. "Your service is deeply appreciated.": This emphasizes the importance of their contributions. 
6. "I am grateful for your bravery and dedication.": This recognizes their courage. 
7. "Your service allows us to live freely and safely.": This connects their service to the benefits they provide. 
8. "I appreciate everything you've done for our country.": This offers a more comprehensive expression of gratitude. 

For parents and caregivers who have navigated the mental health system and youth and young adults (ages 12 - 26) who have received mental health treatment to complete the Lifting Voices' surveys. Share your experiences and ideas to help improve supports and services for all families.

Parent/Caregiver Survey

Youth/Young Adult Survey

Lifting Voices aims to transform the children’s behavioral health system by elevating the perspectives and experiences of youth who have faced severe mental health challenges and their families. We also aim to support youth and families seeking mental health support and policy makers and advocates seeking to improve mental health care delivery. 

NFSTAC Family Collective Podcast: Families Traveling the Journey of Recovery

Annie Powell, the visionary leader behind One World Recovery Network, discusses the newly funded National Peer-Run Training and Technical Assistance Center for Addiction Recovery Supports (CARS); the concept of Collective Impact; and what policy makers, families, and clinicians need to know about individuals and families traveling the journey of recovery.​

NFSTAC Webinar: Introduction to Wellness Recovery Spaces What We Know Right Now

Tuesday, May 21^st | 2:00 – 3:30 PM ET

This webinar will discuss the possibilities of well-functioning recovery spaces, including concerns and benefits of alternative recovery spaces, how families can support their loved ones’ independence and recovery, and the role peers could potentially play in well-functioning recovery spaces as our world is increasingly open to addressing mental illness and/or substance use disorder.  

Register

If you have a comment, suggestion, or think you are, or know, a good guest please reach out via email to dads@kypartnership.org.

Substance Use Treatment Locator

Millions of Americans have a substance use disorder. Help is available. FindTreatment.gov.

Find Treatment in KY

Use this website to find facilities and providers who are actively taking new clients. https://findhelpnow.org/ky

Disaster Distress Helpline

1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746).

Website: www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline

Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator

Find alcohol, drug, or mental health treatment facilities and programs around the country at findtreatment.samhsa.gov.