Fundraising Beyond Mental Health Awareness Month: Ways To Support Mental Health Year Round
- Aimly Fundraising
- May 31, 2024
- 2 min read
TL;DR: Learn how your business can make a significant and sustained impact on mental health awareness and support throughout the year. Discover key statistics, insights, and practical strategies to raise awareness, support mental health organizations, and engage your customers through year-round charitable initiatives.
May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public and advocating for mental wellness. This month offers a vital opportunity to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and highlight the daily struggles faced by those living with mental illnesses. However, mental health is an ongoing issue that deserves attention and support every day of the year.
Statistics reveal that 10.2 million young adults between 18 and 25 experience mental, behavioral, or emotional health issues, accounting for 30.6% of this age group. Alarmingly, suicide is the second-leading cause of death for individuals aged 10-34. Furthermore, 47.1% of young adults perceive an unmet need for mental health services, and while 72% of LGBTQ+ youth want professional counseling, only 32% receive it.
Given the rising prevalence of mental health challenges, it is imperative to support and fund resources that assist affected individuals, families, and communities year-round. Beyond education and advocacy, funding programs that provide accessible mental health resources is crucial for making a tangible impact.
Actionable Strategies for Businesses to Provide Sustained Mental Health Support
1. Utilize Your Platform to Advocate for Mental Health
Despite increasing awareness, stigma surrounding mental health persists, and many affected individuals do not seek treatment. Nearly 60% of people with mental illnesses do not receive treatment or medication. Use your platform to raise awareness and educate others about mental health. Leverage your marketing channels to share information on how to seek help and support those experiencing mental health issues throughout the year.
2. Host Educational Events
Sharing mental health resources with your audience is crucial, but it’s equally important to provide resources for your team. Consider hosting internal events with interactive sessions led by mental health professionals, where employees can learn about common disorders, symptoms, and coping strategies. Include activities like mindfulness exercises or stress management techniques to promote well-being. Invite guest speakers to share personal experiences, fostering open dialogue and encouraging employees to seek support. Provide contact information for mental health hotlines, local support groups, and employee assistance programs to ensure access to needed help year-round.
3. Organize Periodic Mental Health Fundraisers
A great way to support mental health initiatives is by hosting periodic fundraisers utilizing fun, easy-to-use platforms like Aimly. These initiatives attract customers and motivate them to support your brand while contributing to a crucial cause.
Aimly’s online fundraising platform provides tools like a team leaderboard, a progress bar to show how close you are to meeting your goal, and donor board for supporters to leave words of encouragement and strengthen the element of community building.
Check out all the features and possibilities at www.goaimly.com today!
By engaging in these strategies, your business can contribute significantly to mental health awareness and support, making a meaningful impact throughout the year.
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