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May has been Mental Health Awareness Month but isn’t every day a good day to take a minute or ten to take care of yourself? Mental Health Awareness month has been observed in May in the United States since 1949. The purpose of recognizing this work is to educate the public, help to reduce stigma, and recognize resources available for those in need of mental and behavioral health services. These outreach efforts can promote healing and offer support and empowerment to those who need it.
Today I want to shine a light on mental health and share some reminders of what each of us can do to decrease stigma and support those who may be struggling.
Educate yourself about mental health conditions. You can read books, listen to podcasts or even find some webinars regarding mental health and suicide prevention. Here are two great websites to start you off: NAMI https://www.nami.org/Home and NIMH https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help
Share what you learn with others. It is important to pass on the information you learn with those you care about. Pay it forward.
Challenge misconceptions and stereotypes. Many times, people with mental health disorders get labeled in harmful and hurtful terms. Don’t hesitate to challenge these ideas with accurate descriptions and be a voice to help spread accurate information.
Encourage others to search out help. If you know someone struggling, please reach out and connect with them.
Think about the words you use. Words matter and it is vital that we are fact-based, respectful and kind when we discuss our own or other’s health journey.
Be a good and active listener to your friends and loved ones who are needing help. Sometimes this is the most important thing we can do.
Take care of yourself. This is essential!!! This can include practicing self-care, meditation or even seeking out support from your loved ones. It could even include requesting therapy for yourself.
And lastly, support your local mental health organization and advocacy groups. If you need information on where to find those, please reach out and I will be happy to share resources in YOUR community. You can also share on your social media pages and channels to help spread awareness.
Remember managing stress appropriately is crucial to improving your emotional health. Try to be kind to yourself and extend some grace when things don’t go the way you want them to or you didn’t achieve everything you have on your never ending to do list. Take it one day at a time and don’t forget to set realistic expectations. Finally, remember, you need to put your own mask on before putting on someone else’s. Take care of you!
Jennifer Dunn is a Rural Health Agent for UGA Cooperative Extension. You can contact her at Jennifer.Dunn@uga.edu.
