By Lindsay Parkoo
In times of stress, it’s important to take a moment to check in with yourself and your mental health. So much so that there’s an entire month dedicated to it. Mental Health Awareness Month is a national movement to support those with mental issues. It’s a special month to remind yourself that you’re not alone.
You’re especially not alone when New Perspectives Therapeutics Services is with you every step of the way.
New Perspectives Therapeutic Services is proud to support Mental Health Awareness Month. Clinical Director and counselor Nigeria McHellon ensures that clients will be supported through whatever they’re going through. Various therapeutic approaches are utilized to help you obtain good mental health. Whether you have anxiety, depression, PTSD, or self-esteem issues, there is a method that can help you this May.
Speaking of which, what exactly is mental health awareness month?
What is Mental Health Awareness Month?
Mental Health Awareness Month is a national movement that happens in May. It’s been observed since 1949 in the United States and is celebrated with local events, media events, and screenings. For the entire month of May, it’s meant to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and mental illness. The movement is also meant to destigmatize mental health so that people learn to care about their mental well-being.
Here are some ways to raise awareness and participate in Mental Health Awareness Month.
How to Participate in Mental Health Awareness Month.
Educate Yourself
This is the perfect time to learn about mental health practices and illnesses. There are plenty of books and infographics put out by national organizations that teach about mental health topics. Maybe find a counselor who’d be willing to talk to you. Understanding mental illness will help you build empathy and advocacy for the people who suffer from it. This can be where you can address any biases you have about therapy, mental health, and mental illnesses. By learning about the lives of those who deal with mental illnesses, you’ll be able to overcome prejudices. Being knowledgeable will, in turn, help you be a better advocate.
Work on Self-Care
Your self-care plays a big role in your mental health. Implementing good self-care habits helps ease stress in your life. Common habits can be choosing to eat healthily, go to sleep early, or do activities you like. Another can be to journal your thoughts and experiences. Doing so can help you look inward and develop empathy for your struggle. Practicing self-care habits when needed also helps when you’re burnt out or exhausted in your routine. It’s just important to find a healthy activity that recharges you.
Support Mental Health Organizations
There are many organizations out there that actively push for mental health advocacy that you can help with. You can volunteer at local organizations or donate to their efforts. Even the people in your communities might want to share their experiences with you.
Support Friends and Loved Ones
Mental Health Awareness Month can be a time to focus on your relationships with people you care about. Mental struggle is not easy to see, so it’s important to reach out to your loved ones. Let them know that you’re there for them. Be aware of them, and don’t be afraid to talk about what they might be going through. You’ll be building a better foundation with them in the process. While it’s not your job to “fix” people, it can mean a lot to know they can trust you.
If what you’re doing is positive and healthy for you, participating in Mental Health Awareness Month will be rewarding.
Celebrate Mental Health Awareness with New Perspectives Therapeutic Services
Mental health isn’t something that’s to be taken lightly. Letting mental issues go unchecked leads to more problems down the road. That’s why mental health awareness is so important, and New Perspectives Therapeutic Services is dedicated to that for clients. Look for counseling nearby for you and a loved one and start that journey to stability. The benefits will be well worth it.
To learn of more ways to get involved in this year’s Mental Health Awareness month, find support at New Perspectives Therapeutic Service.
Nigeria McHellon, MSW, LCSW
Email me at: nm.newperspectivestherapy@gmail.com
Call or Text me at: (904) 439-6524
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