National Mental Health Month
Mental Health Matters - Every Day!

54 million Americans have mental disorders ranging from mild depression to serious mental challenges that threaten the quality of life. For more information about mental health, including coping with difficult times, fact sheets about specific concerns, treatment resources, government agency and consumer group information visit the websites listed below:

• The National Mental Health Association (NMHA) is the country's oldest and largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. With more than 340 affiliates nationwide. NMHA works to improve the mental health of all Americans, especially the 54 million individuals with mental disorders, through advocacy, education, research and service.
• The Clearinghouse helps connect individuals to self-help and advocacy resources, including local assistance. In Spanish and Enlglish.
• The Bright Side, whose motto is “You Are Not Alone”, offers support for those dealing with mental health challenges.

May is National Arthritis Month

Arthritis - a term that means joint inflamation-is the leading cause of disability in the United States, affecting about one in every six Americans. If you or a loved one is suffering with arthritis, chances are that it is one of the two most common forms - osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. These forms of arthritis are part of a group of more than 100 diseases, called rheumatic disorders. For more information visit these helpful websites:

• The site of the Arthritis Foundation contains information on the latest arthritis and drug research, discussions and interactivite opportunities with specialists, tips on diet and nuitrition, traveling with arthritis and local resources.
• Arthritis.com - a national consumer site that features user-friendly information such as a symptom checklist, tips for managing pain, finding a doctor, and new medications.