Mental Health Awareness Month

I have to admit that last week I needed a break from social media because I felt that I was getting overwhelmed with everything that was going on that week. Have you ever given yourself a break from social media? We all need a chance to provide ourselves with self-care and if we do not then this can affect our mental health.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month which is a crucial month of self-care. Mental Health Month is raising awareness and educate the public about mental illnesses, such as the 18.1% of Americans who suffer from [1] depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder; the realities of living with these conditions; and strategies for attaining mental health and wellness. It also aims to draw attention to suicide, which can be precipitated by some mental illnesses. Additionally, Mental Health Awareness Month strives to reduce the stigma (negative attitudes and misconceptions) that surrounds mental illnesses. (2)

There are two websites that I love to refer clients to about mental health issues. One is the Mental Health America - mentalhealthamerica.net/4mind4body and this year theme is #4Mind4Body and taking it to the next level, explore the topics of animal companionship (including pets and support animals), spirituality, humor, work-life balance, and recreation and social connections as ways to boost mental health and general wellness. (3) Did you know that in one study found that 1/3 of participants with depression experienced full relief of their symptoms after improving their diet. The more people improved their diets, the more their depression improved. (4)

Another website is the National Alliance of Mental Illness particularly the WhyCare? campaign which is an opportunity to share the importance of care in our relationships to others, in mental health treatment and services and in support and education to millions of people, families, caregivers and loved ones affected by mental illness. Demonstrating how and why we care brings more to awareness by showing our actions and connections to others. Care has the power to make a life-changing impact on those affected by mental health conditions. (5)

Make sure that this will be the month that you take care of yourself. Never neglect how you feel and start to take action today!