Lonely, misunderstood, feeling empty yet filled with fear, shame, and doubt. Having non-stop thoughts yet your legs feel stuck in cement, unable to move. The weight of others’ opinions drenches you like wearing a winter coat in midsummer… That is what poor mental health can feel like to one person. Another may describe it differently. Yet, the one thing in common is its prevalence and the urgent need for appropriate support.
According to the latest data from the National Institute of Mental Health Disorders, approximately 26% of American adults—1 in 4 individuals—encounter diagnosable mental health conditions annually. Moreover, many face multiple concurrent mental health challenges, with depressive illnesses often intertwining with substance use and anxiety disorders.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a dedicated time for slaying stigma, extending support, and fostering education. Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and act, as well as how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.
Reflecting on my own journey, I recall times when stress overwhelmed me because I didn’t prioritize my own needs. The needs of others and the pressure to “do more” took precedence, taking a toll on both my body and mind. The isolation that followed led me to believe my struggles were unique until I opened up and realized many shared similar experiences.
A pivotal moment came when my colleague and friend, Bre Grzych Lac LMT, and I collaborated to create a daily self-care routine called Take3ForMe™. Rooted in nasal breathing, movement, and a positive mindset, this simple yet profound practice honors the trinity of mind, body, and spirit in just three steps. Our community has embraced the power of this routine to foster resilience and adaptability amidst life’s chaos, teaching us that while we can’t control external events, we can control how we respond to them.
Breaking through the stigma associated with mental health struggles was my biggest challenge. I had to accept that it was okay not to be okay and that my feelings didn’t define me. Gratefully, friends, mentors, and public motivators shared their stories, showing me that I was not alone. Sharing our stories for the purpose of empowering others is key to establishing a new mindset about mental health.
In the chaos of contemporary life, it’s easy to neglect our own needs amidst obligations. But true healing begins with slowing down and attuning ourselves to our inner dialogue. Self-care, in its simplest form, is the gentle art of pausing and listening to our inner selves. Mental health awareness starts with recognizing the whispers of our own hearts.
Understanding that reaching out for mental health support is similar to seeking support for any other ailment in the body is crucial. Just as we visit our dentist for a sensitive tooth, it’s best to start mental health care early on if possible, rather than waiting.
Let’s commit to valuing mental health and bridging the gap between unaddressed emotional concerns and physical manifestations. Together, we can create a world where mental health is not separate from health, but an integral part of it. A world where wellness means being in harmony with oneself, mind, body, and spirit.
Let’s advocate for a future where every individual feels empowered to prioritize their mental well-being, and where seeking support is met with understanding and compassion. This vision is within our reach, and by raising awareness and promoting acceptance, each of us can contribute to its realization.
