May, the month of mental health, highlights the importance of mental well-being and raises awareness about the impact mental health has on others. Every year, organizations and individuals come together to raise awareness and advocate for better mental health resources.
The importance of Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) lies in its ability to educate the public and help others recognize the impact of mental health on lives. Education and recognition are important in ways that reduce stigma towards mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month organizes time and space to openly share the struggles of mental health and encourage others to seek help.
Several ways to raise awareness of mental health are through fundraisers and awareness events. Many organizations, such as Mental Health America (MHA), the National Institute of Mental Health, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), hold fundraisers and events. This year’s theme for Mental Health Awareness Month is “More Good Days Together,” which encourages others to define and share what a “good” day is.
Mental health is the state of your emotional, psychological, and social well-being, which impacts the way you act, feel, think, and deal with stress. According to Dr. Eric Jett, a licensed counselor and senior director of counseling programs at Southern New Hampshire University, having a good mental health can lead to tackling life events one step at a time, stating that “Being in a positive place with mental health is being able to acknowledge emotionally where you are at, knowing that you can accomplish the daily tasks that you need to maintain healthy relationships and engage in a way that is meaningful for you”. Some ways to improve your mental health are to:
- Have a support system
- Take a break
- Focus on the positive
Taking care of your mental health is important for both the mind and body. If one’s mental health deteriorates, their physical health can also be affected. Mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and stress, might cause fatigue or headaches. In some cases, if the mental health issue has not been dealt with, others are at risk of strokes and heart disease.
Mental Health Awareness Month is the month when others are encouraged to share their experiences on mental health and spread awareness about mental health.
