Participate in Mental Health Awareness Month.

May is here, which means it’s officially Mental Health Awareness Month. With all of the stressful and devastating changes brought on by a global pandemic over the past year, this impactful month is more important than ever. Shared feelings of stress, depression, and isolation have been felt around the world by people of all ages. This collective experience has shown us that nobody is immune to the damaging impacts that life’s challenges can have on our mental health.

Mental health can be defined as the state of a person’s psychological and emotional well-being. It controls the way we think, feel, speak, and act. People are often quick to speak out when their physical health is under attack, yet many feel shame when it comes to addressing their equally important mental health. During Mental Health Awareness Month, we come together to eliminate the stigma and remind people of the importance of mental health awareness.

Mental Health Awareness Month

Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed each year in May in an effort to increase the awareness surrounding mental health and support those who need it. Across the United States, millions of people are struggling in a myriad of ways. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 Americans struggles with a mental health condition.

There has long been a stigma surrounding mental health that prevents many people from reaching out for help when they need it most. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to break down that stigma and remind people that they are never alone. This month, and every month, we continue to support all people with compassion and understanding.

Ways to Participate in Mental Health Awareness Month

From reading a book on mental health to reaching out to your family and friends, there are a number of ways you can get involved. We’ve made it easy to get started by rounding up the top ways to make a difference this May.

Here are 4 great ways to participate in Mental Health Awareness Month:

1. Educate yourself. Whether you look online or in a bookstore, there are thousands of books you can choose from to learn more about mental health. From informative books on specific mental illnesses to books on ways to improve your mental health, pick one that speaks to you and give it a read.

2. Practice self-care. Healthy self-care habits play a significant role in your mental health. Dedicate some time to picking out a new self-care habit like journaling, meditation, walking, or even a weekly at-home spa night.

3. Check in on your loved ones. Because so many people keep their mental health issues to themselves, it’s impossible to know who could use some support. Show your family and friends that they’re not alone by reaching out to see how they’re doing.

4. Support a mental health organization. There are many incredible mental health organizations out there who seek to support those with issues like substance abuse, depression, and more. Choose one that you feel strongly about and consider donating your time or money to support them.

Let this month serve as a reminder that you are never alone.