Did you know May is Mental Health Month? Each year, organizations, communities, and individuals come together to honor the national movement focused on promoting mental health, increasing awareness and educating others on mental illness, fighting stigma, and offering support and resources.
Millions of Americans face mental health challenges each year, so if you are one of them, it’s critical to remember that you are not alone. May brings us together to advocate for those who may not have the knowledge or resources to face their struggles alone. Through national and local events such as walks and community fundraisers, support groups, resource hotlines, personal stories, social media content, and more, the month brings hope to all of us.
Ways to take care of your mental health this month:
Regardless of if you have a mental illness, we ALL have mental health that must be tended to regularly. The good news is, there are many ways to take care of your mental and emotional health through routines and coping tools. Below are some ideas:
- Rediscover or start a new hobby: Whether you used to paint or knit, love to read, or want to learn how to start a garden, homing in on a hobby as self-care can bring you joy. This is a great coping skill you can rely on when life seems overwhelming.
- Engage in physical activity: The age-old concept that exercise helps mental health holds true. It can be hard to start healthy habits when you’re in a low place, but the endorphins that are released when you exercise are priceless.
- Connect with others: Spending time with loved once is a great way to practice self-care. So whether you grab lunch with a friend or call your mom, make sure you’re nourishing the relationships in your life! Your mental health will thank you.
- Consider professional help: You don’t have to struggle in silence. If your mental health isn’t improving and it’s affecting your daily functioning, it may be a good time to bring in a professional. Our Avance Care behavioral health therapists and psychiatric providers are great resources to bring you back to your best self. Through comprehensive, whole-person care, our team will help you grow in self-awareness, make healthy choices, and achieve appropriate balance in your life.
Start your care journey by finding a therapist near you here. For psychiatry providers, click here.
Explore local mental health events this month in your community:
