May is Mental Health Awareness Month! Ever since 1949, May has been the month to focus on mental health and the struggles that come with it. However, we should treat every day as if it's Mental Health Awareness Month. Our mental health is key and learning how to take care of it is vitally important. Whether it’s trauma, stress, or depression, we all suffer from some mental health issues, especially during a pandemic. One of the most important parts to being mentally healthy is acknowledging your struggles. Pay attention to what triggers any negative feelings and find ways to avoid and/or eliminate them. Some hobbies proven to reduce anxiety and depression are physical activities, arts and crafts, and meditation. Another step to improving your mental health is seeking help! Speaking to a therapist, counselor, family member, and even friends is proven to help calm the body and mind down. Don't hesitate to open up!
Managing School Stress
As students, it can be hard to manage schoolwork, athletics, clubs, and outside of school activities. Taking deep breaths, stepping away from technology, and doing activities that you enjoy are important to keep a healthy mindset. Remember, your teachers are there to help you succeed. Reach out to them if you ever feel overwhelmed or incapable of completing an assignment. The last thing you and your mental health needs is added stress. Speak up!
How To Help
Every person and their struggles are different! Knowing how to be there for an individual can determine what their next step might be. According to MentalHealth.org, these are the recommended steps for comforting someone struggling with mental illness:
Listen carefully; show them that they’re being heard
Let them share as little or as much as they want; don't pressure them
Don't try to diagnose them; leave this to the professionals
Focus on them; try not to interrupt
Don't second guess or diminish their feelings
Make time for them; don't be in a rush to go somewhere
Offer to help or attend therapy sessions with them; but don't force it
If you feel you or the person you’re with is in immediate danger to themselves or others you must contact emergency services right away.
Mental Health Hotlines
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
https://www.mentalhealth.gov/get-help/immediate-help
Websites To Visit For More Information
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help/index.shtml
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/publications/supporting-someone-mental-health-problem
You’re not alone!
Mental Health Disorders are normal, so let's talk about it together!