Here are a few stats that often surprise people:
- 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences a mental health condition each year
- 1 in 20 adults lives with a serious mental illness
- More than 12 million adults report having serious thoughts of suicide annually. Read on: NAMI’s Mental Health by the Numbers
Mental health challenges don’t always look obvious when we are at work. They can present as lack of focus, emotional exhaustion, tension between coworkers, or changes in engagement. If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Support can make a real difference. We’re here for you!
Other Awareness Moments This Month
May also includes a few other important reminders:
- National Prevention Week focuses on substance use prevention and overall mental wellness. Resource: Postpartum Support International
- Lupus Awareness Month highlights autoimmune conditions that may be invisible on the outside but deeply impact daily life.
- Maternal Health: Pregnancy and the postpartum period can bring big emotional changes, and support is important. Help is available for parents who may be struggling.
Awareness helps us show up with more understanding and compassion for one another.
Seasonal Shifts: Finding Our Footing
This time of year can feel energizing and overwhelming at the same time. With fuller schedules, old habits sometimes sneak back in, competing with new routines for attention.
One reminder we hope you’ll keep close is that support systems matter. Whether it’s a coworker, supervisor, clinician, or an Employee Assistance Program reaching out can make a big difference.
Community & Connection: Join Us
Navigating Mental Health and Substance Use Challenges
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
9:30 to 10:30 AM, with Q & A
H. Lee Dennison Building, Hauppauge
Hosted by the Long Island Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence in partnership with Suffolk County, this conversation brings together professionals from mental health, substance use, and veteran services, including LECSA’s own Megan Dwyer. Together, they will talk about real world challenges facing families and workplaces.
It’s Not Invisible: Lupus Awareness Month
May 13
9:30 to 11:00 AM
Thrive, 1324 Motor Parkway, Hauppauge
Presented by the Long Island Employee Assistance Professionals Association, this session features Claudia Ragni, who will share insight into the lived experience of invisible illness and how it intersects with work and well-being.
Closing Thought
Mental health is part of every workplace conversation, whether we name it or not.
As May continues, we invite you to:
Check in with yourself and with others- Use the supports available to you
- Notice how stress shows up day to day
- Stay open to different perspectives
Celebrating 7 Years with LECSA
Teams are strengthened by a wide range of perspectives and lived experiences. Millie is celebrating 7 years with LECSA. We have benefited from her perspective and lived experience. Feel free to let her know if you have too.
