Mental Health Awareness Month
Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month? I think it’s wonderful that mental health is being observed. Why? Because over 1/5 of Americans have a mental illness. However, this does not account for individuals that are presently living with a mental health condition that has not been diagnosed. This is why cultivating good mental health and wellness requires attention and care, and here’s your opportunity to get started.
Mental Health Awareness Month strives to educate people about diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, etc., reducing stigma by giving individuals the chance to talk openly about their journeys with mental health and not feel ashamed for seeking help and engaging in events throughout the month.
I feel hopeful because the trajectory of mental health continues to make positive strides. Never before have we seen an outpouring of people coming forward like Selena Gomez, Billie Eilish, Michael Phelps, and Prince Harry opening up and courageously sharing their journeys and changing the conversation about mental health. What’s even more refreshing is that it’s okay not to be okay, which is validating for many individuals because they are being acknowledged and understood. They don’t have to feel ashamed when they’re having symptoms or feel out of sorts.
We can also do positive things throughout the month for others, like reaching out to a loved one who may be struggling with a mental health issue. Or lending an ear to a friend, a coworker, or a neighbor who is going through a rough time. Or, checking in with your children to see how they are coping and addressing the importance of mental well-being with them. And finally, check in with yourself. If you start noticing changes in sleep, mood, and functionality, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. In doing so, you can mitigate symptoms, get back to your routine, and prevent yourself from going down a rabbit hole.
Mental Health Awareness Month also addresses the importance of self-care. What does that mean? It means prioritizing and maintaining your emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which is vital for overall health, quality of life, managing stress, maintaining relationships, and contributing to society.
As you go through the month, consider incorporating new things in your daily routine to manage stress and improve your life. You might even share what is working for you with family and friends so they can give it a try. Now, I would like to provide you with a few suggestions:
Extracurriculars: Take an art class, learn how to play the guitar, go out dancing, or join a book club.
Volunteering: Consider participating at a local food pantry, doggy shelter, or delivering food to homebound individuals; this can be a wonderful way to give back to the community and boost mental health.
Support Group: Connect with other people to feel a sense of community and belonging. This is also a wonderful way to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Participate: Engage in local events focusing on addressing mental health like self-care practices, workshops, or presentations online or in person focusing on mental health. For those of you interested, I will be doing a presentation at the Liverpool Public Library on Tuesday, May 20, addressing shame and mental health.
Get a Pet: If you don’t already have one, you might consider getting one. And if you do have one, spend more time with it. This is a wonderful way to decrease stress levels and cultivate a friendship with a pet.
Get Outdoors: Go for a hike or a walk in a park or other natural setting. Getting out in nature can be useful in managing symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can relax you. It can improve sleep. You might even consider taking a walk during your lunch break to get some fresh air and reduce work-related stress.
Practice Gratitude: Focusing on all of the things you are grateful for. Start counting your blessings. Try reciting gratitude in the morning and before you go to bed. Practicing gratitude can promote positive thinking.
Improving Sleep: Getting enough sleep is critical for maintaining mental well-being. So make it a point to find ways to improve your sleep habits. Try going to bed each night at the same time. Don’t drink caffeine before going to bed. Don’t scroll on social media. If possible, try getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Eat Healthy: Try eliminating processed and sugary foods from your diet. If you consume a lot of soda, try reducing your intake on a daily basis. You might also try substituting it with something less sugary like tea or flavored waters. Try ordering healthier foods when you go out to lunch or dinner.
Get Together with Family and Friends: Feeling a sense of connection to others can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. It can also provide a sense of belonging, support, community, and love. No doubt, our mental well-being gets better when we spend time together.
Take a Mental Health Day: Make it a point to take a mental health day from work and life. Give yourself a day to rest, relax, and recharge. Watch some of your favorite movies. Order takeout. Or get a massage. I think I’m due for a mental health day myself!
So, let’s continue to take advantage of Mental Health Awareness Month by educating ourselves and others about the importance of mental health and well-being; sharing our journeys with others to reduce stigma and shame; doing positive things for others throughout the month; and engaging in self-care practices to improve your functionality and quality of life. May this Mental Health Awareness Month bring you a fresh new outlook on life! See you next month!
