The Fidelis Care Blog

July is Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. This observance, also known as BIPOC Mental Health Month, is named after Moore Campbell for bringing awareness to the mental health needs of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. Erlinda Delacruz, MA, Director of Community Programs for The Jed Foundation (JED), shared insight into the importance of the month and how the organization is working to promote understanding and offer support.

During the hot summer months, many of us spend time at the beach, lake, or pool. Water safety is important for children and adults. Here are some tips to help you stay safe as you enjoy the water:

Allergies are one of the most common chronic diseases. They are caused by the immune system’s reaction to allergens. Allergy symptoms happen when a person with an allergy comes into contact with the allergen. This can happen through ingestion, touch, or inhalation. The immune system tries to protect your body and fight off the allergen. This may cause symptoms like itchiness and rashes. In serious cases, allergic reactions can cause difficulty breathing, fainting, or even death.

Children's Mental Health Awareness Week is May 5 to 11. Held during National Mental Health Awareness Month, this week highlights the importance of early detection, intervention, and support for children facing mental health challenges. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), notes that about one in six U.S. children ages 6 to 17 experiences a mental health disorder each year, making this week a vital opportunity to explore the issue.

Human papilloma virus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It is estimated that one in every four Americans have HPV. Most of them are in their late teens and 20s. Many people will never know they have HPV, because it usually causes no symptoms. But for some people, it can lead to serious health problems, including certain cancers and genital warts.