(May 27, 2022) As 2022 approaches its halfway point, life in the U.S. is opening up. While this may be a welcome return to normal, the past two years have left many emotionally, socially and mentally exhausted.
That’s why Mental Health Awareness Month in May is a good reminder to take care of yourself and others. The month may be winding down but paying attention to your mental health should be a priority year-round. Read on for more about mental health and tips and resources for ongoing support and help.
A silver lining
For more than two years, the pandemic has been first on everyone’s mind – and it’s taken a toll. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half (41.5 percent) of U.S. adults exhibited symptoms of anxiety or depression in early 2021.
But the pandemic’s not solely to blame. A recent Gallup World Poll indicates anger, stress, worry and sadness have been on the rise globally for the past decade.
Despite an overwhelming number of people who struggle, stigmas – both self-perceived and public – are attached to mental health. These stigmas result in stereotypes and discrimination, which ultimately can deter individuals from speaking up and getting help.
Take a quiz to see if you can separate mental health myths from facts.
A silver lining of the pandemic has been a sharp focus on mental health and the need for open, honest conversations around finding ways to support and improve mental health in the workplace and at home.
Tips for help
Mental health affects how we think, feel and act, and determines how we handle stress, relate to others and make healthy choices.
It is important at every stage of life – from childhood through adulthood – and can change over time for various reasons. This makes maintaining mental wellness an ongoing process. If unaddressed, conditions such as anxiety and depression can destroy ideas and energy and have profound consequences.
As one Freeport family, we all have a responsibility to look out for each other and ask for help if needed. Here are some tips for what to do if you or someone you know may be struggling:
- Reach out for help if a problem is lasting too long, is too intense or feels like more than you can handle. It doesn’t mean you’re weak or want attention. Everyone needs help from time to time.
- Trust your gut – if you’re worried about yourself, a friend or co-worker, don’t hesitate to take action and get help.
- Be direct with your friends and co-workers – tell them you’re worried and why, ask them how they’re feeling, and offer to reach out to a professional and / or family member with them or for them.
- Share facts about mental health, especially if you hear something that is not true, to help eliminate stigmas and support open conversations.
- Contact an expert for help – everyday, people turn to experts for guidance on a broad range of health topics, from physical fitness to heart health to nutrition. Mental health should be no different.
Benefits resources
UnitedHealthcare, the company’s medical provider, has resources for members and guests to learn about mental health at UHC.com. Enrolled plan members can access additional resources and get help all in one spot when they create and sign into their myuhc.com account.
If seeking mental health counseling, this benefit is paid at 100 percent after the deductible has been met for the CDHP and PPO options for both in-network and out-of-network coverage. For the EPO option, the copay will be $10 for in-network coverage.
GuidanceResources, the company’s employee assistance program, is provided at no cost to employees and their family. This confidential service offers 24/7 tools and resources to help you preserve and improve your well-being. Call 1-833-962-0716 or go online to guidanceresources.com and use the company code Freeport-McMoRan.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
If you or someone you know is in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, get emergency help right away. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers 24/7, free and confidential support for those in distress as well as prevention and crisis resources. Contact the lifeline at or suicidepreventionlifeline.org, 1-800-273-8255 or via online chat at Lifeline Chat.