May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in the US since 1949 and it seems that this subject is important now more than ever.
Feeling down or overwhelmed? Take a few deep breaths, step outside, go for a walk, call a friend, or talk to a therapist. Support is out there!
What do you do when you’re struggling mentally? Read on for some self-care tips and mental health resources that may be helpful.
Wired for Happy is “a website devoted to mental health, wellness, and finding joy through problem-solving.” They have also compiled a list of smart, simple self-care tips for solid mental health.
- Wake up early and with intention — how you start each day matters.
- Check in with your thoughts — they become your actions.
- Make time for physical activity (even walking or stretching).
- Choose what to say No to, and say No.
- Connect with someone you love.
- Practice slow, deep breaths.
- Speak + act truthfully.
- Watch the projections.
- Be kind.
- Laugh.
Find more information here.
The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation has a list of mental health tips that you can try everyday in order to help elevate your mood and become more resilient. Here are their suggestions:
- Practice self-care and make yourself a priority.
- Disconnect from electronics and social media.
- Engage in activities that provide meaning.
- Volunteer.
- Engage in meditation and/or mindfulness.
- Avoid heavy substance use.
- Get help from a licensed mental health professional when and if you need it.
View more research here.
Oprah Daily has a list of the “40 Best Self-Care Tips to Boost Your Mental Health” that can be found here (click through the pink buttons).
Mental Health America recommends that you “take some time to look around, look within”. They have a toolkit full of information! They also have a screening to see if you’re experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. You can find it all here.
NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, seeks to fight stigma, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for policies that support the millions of people in the US affected by mental illness. Here you can find information, support groups, a helpline and other resources.
