LIFE

Happy Mental Health Month! Mental health should always be a priority, but the month of May is specifically dedicated to raising awareness about mental health. With rising anxiety over the coronavirus pandemic and many people feeling isolated, it's more important than ever to protect our mental health and the health of our communities. Find out how you can make a difference this month...

Fight mental health stigma.

It is important to talk about mental health openly. No one should feel ashamed about dealing with anxiety, depression or anything else concerning mental health. Mental health stigma can prevent people from getting the help they need. Educating yourself and others about mental health can save lives. Being aware of symptoms and knowing where to get help can make a very important difference. 

Help struggling friends and family.

If you know someone who is struggling with their mental health, there are several ways you can help. A good first step is to reach out and let them know they are not alone. If you're comfortable, you can also offer to be a listening ear if they want to talk about what is going on. If not, that's totally fine too! Especially when a friend is struggling, you can always suggest they talk to a trusted adult in their lives or a professional. There are free hotlines they can call, or they can make an appointment with a therapist. Most therapists are taking virtual and telemedicine appointments right now, so no one has to wait until the quarantine is over.

Manage your own mental health. 

Staying mentally healthy is just as important as staying physically healthy! Similar to eating healthy food and exercising, there are ways to improve your mental health. Getting enough sleep, practicing mindfulness, and regulating your mood/mindset are great ways to manage your mental health. Talking to a therapist or school counselor may give you additional resources that address your specific needs. You don't need a diagnosis to talk to a professional. Anyone can go to therapy for any reason.

How will you make a difference this Mental Health Month? Tell us about it in the comments!

by Kylie Miller | 5/1/2020