The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department posted a public plea on Facebook earlier today, seeking assistance in locating 38-year-old Akthar Amer Peter Michael, also known as "Mike" or "Amer Dumalag." As reported, his family last received contact from him on September 22 at 2 p.m. and has since not heard from him.
Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Mike is dependent on medication. This personal detail sheds light on the critical conversations society should have about mental health and its consequences on loved ones and communities.
According to a National Institute of Mental Health study, millions of people across the United States grapple with mental illnesses which, if untreated, can lead to devastating outcomes. Bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.8% of the adult population, revealing a significant part of society that may be grappling with the challenges this condition brings. This may especially be the case for those who are unable to access necessary resources or support networks.
