May is a month dedicated to promoting mental health awareness, removing the stigma associated with behavioral health issues, and emphasizing how mental illness and addiction may affect anybody.

Mental Health Awareness Month was started in the United States in 1949 by the Mental Health America organization. Mental health awareness month is a chance for all of us to come together from May 1 to May 31st to recognize the importance of wellness in all our lives and to celebrate those who have overcome mental illness. 

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) also joins the national movement to raise awareness for mental health. Mental health includes our emotional, physical, and social well-being; it affects how we think and how we act during different scenarios. Mental health is present with us throughout our entire childhood all the way until adulthood, which is why it is important to take care of yourself to make healthier choices. 

Self-care entails making time to do things that boost your physical and emotional wellness. Self-care can boost your energy levels, help you manage stress, and reduce your chance of getting sick when it comes to your mental health. Simple self-care practices can make a tremendous difference in your life. So here are some things you can do for your self-care! 

• Skincare

Although skincare is quite expensive at times, it’s highly recommended. Skincare allows your skin to be in good condition and makes it look at its best which can boost confidence, therefore you’ll stress out less about your appearance. Your skincare routine can just be a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen. It can also just be warm water and a gentle soap! However, it’s best to know your skin type and find what’s best for you.

• Being Active 

Being active can improve brain health, manage your appearance, and has other benefits too. Exercising is also a mood boost due to the body releasing chemicals that suppress hormones that cause stress. If you don’t want to exercise but want to be active, just take a walk around the block or the park! 

• Taking a Day for Yourself 

Studying for upcoming exams is important but what’s more important is your mental health.  Even if a test is around the corner, you should always take a day off to enjoy yourself. Hang out with friends or be alone and do simple productive activities! 

• Setting Goals 

Setting goals for yourself is able to give you a long-term vision and short-term motivation. This can be used to change for the better in certain areas, such as relationships, school, etc. Your goal doesn’t have to be something complex, you can keep it simple and stick to one or two! 

• Living Healthily 

Living healthily creates a healthy mindset helping you make better choices. Eating healthy, getting enough sleep and exercising as well as avoiding toxins that can harm your body is a healthy lifestyle.