How to Make a Difference During Mental Health Awareness Month

The month of May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and everyone can help spread awareness by doing their part. For some, it may be hard to understand the extent of mental health until they experience it first-hand or know of a loved one who is or has gone through it. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about one in five adults in the United States live with a mental illness. Many of these individuals may not feel comfortable talking about it because it is typically overlooked. But the best way to normalize mental health is by doing your part during Mental Health Awareness Month. Here are some ways.

Educate Yourself 

There is so much to learn, and it only begins with you. The first step to help spread awareness is educating yourself. Learn about the warning signs, stigmas, and coping skills that surround mental health. A common misconception is that mental health looks and acts a certain way, but there are many different illnesses and treatments.   

Create Conversations

Once you’ve educated yourself about mental health, the next step is creating a conversation with those around you. Unlike a physical disability, a mental health condition is often hard to see unless someone tells you about it. Asking your friends, family members, or coworkers how they are doing and listening may sound like a simple solution, but sometimes all people need is someone to listen to them. Make sure to follow up with them periodically and offer resources to show that they are not alone and help is available.

Share Personal Stories

If you have experienced mental health issues in the past or are currently overcoming them, share your experiences with others. If someone is going through the same thing as you and you talk about your journey, they may feel more comfortable opening up.  Talk about the healthy habits you’ve developed both physically and mentally that have helped. Your experiences could be what others need to hear to take action and help themselves.

Encourage People To Get Support

Sometimes all we need is a little push. Whether people have a physical disability or a cognitive disability that leads to a mental health condition, help them find the support they need. It can be hard for people to reach out for support on their own because they may feel ashamed or embarrassed. But the bigger the support system, the more comfortable they will feel to find the resources they need.

Next Day Access helps promote Mental Health Awareness in different ways, so contact us today to learn how we can help.