LIFE

May might be a lot of things, but one of the most important is National Mental Health Month. Since 1949, May has been used to raise awareness of mental health in the United States. Mental illnesses affects 1 in 5 American teens. Chances are that you have been directly, or indirectly, affected by mental health issues. This is why Mental Health Month is so important.

One of the best ways to observe Mental Health Mental is to focus on your own mental health: Take time from your busy schedule for some much needed relaxation. One of the best things to do is unplug. Although it might seem super relaxing to chill out in front of your laptop or phone, that blue light isn’t the best thing you. Not only can it cause a strain on your eyes, but it can be a source of negative stress. Instead, check out a yoga class with your friends, or treat yourself to a Lush bathbomb.

Taking time for yourself doesn’t have to be a grand affair. It can be as simple as making some time to paint your nails before bed, or baking some comfort food.

Another great way to celebrate Mental Health Month is to volunteer. Not only is it a way to give back, but Rodlescia Sneed, a doctoral candidate in social and health psychology at Carnegie Mellon University, stated in this study that “many people find volunteer work to be helpful with respect to stress reduction, and we know that stress is very strongly linked to health outcomes.” Mental Health America, the organization that first began Mental Health Month, is always looking for volunteers. The National Alliance on Mental Illness is also a great organization. Try checking one of these out or something more local, like a food kitchen or shelter in your area that could use a hand. Do Something can also help you get started volunteering for something that you're passionate about.

What are your Mental Health Month plans? How do you work on your mental health?

by Maria Graham | 5/17/2016