MEMPHIS, Tenn. — July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, which means addressing disparities in minority mental health and finding support is the goal.

Everyone has experienced back-to-school jitters at least once in their life. But what happens when those jitters lead to an overwhelming amount of stress or fear?

It starts with understanding and community dedication in order to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness.

The CDC found that in 2023, 40% of students across the United States had a persistent feeling of sadness or hopelessness.

However, the good news is that young people are resilient and that there are support groups and services available.

Mental health difficulties impact quality of life, and experts say addressing issues early on goes a long way.

“I think that we as a community we need to become more open to allowing our children to receive services such as mental health services and counseling, especially when they experience a traumatic event, because that trauma can affect them the rest of their lives,” said Dr. Keevia Porter-Carson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Minding Your Health.

A few ways to manage mental health include engaging in healthy habits, sticking to a treatment plan, and finding a support group.

Experts also encourage individuals experiencing mental health-related distress or worried about a loved one who may need crisis support to call or text 988. It’s free, confidential, and available 24/7.