National Mental Health Awareness Month Highlights the Importance of Mental Wellbeing

May is National Mental Health Awareness Month: a dedicated time for organizations and communities to raise awareness and encourage individuals to prioritize their mental wellbeing.

Mental health is an integral part of our overall health and happiness. Non-profit organizations like ServiceNet play a vital role in making mental health services widely available–and by fostering more public awareness, we help encourage individuals to seek the support they need when they need it.

Here are just a few of the ways you can contribute to your own mental wellbeing:

• Practice self-care: Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment contribute significantly to overall mental wellbeing.

• Seek professional help: If you are struggling with a mental health issue, seek help from a qualified therapist or counselor. They can provide you with the support and resources you need to manage your symptoms, gain perspective, and improve your wellbeing.

• Stay connected with others: Maintaining connections with friends and family, and seeking help from support groups or online communities, can greatly enhance mental wellbeing.

• Reduce stress: Chronic stress can adversely impact mental health. Employing stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness practices, deep breathing exercises, and taking breaks when needed supports mental health and wellbeing.

• Challenge negative thinking: Negative thought patterns can contribute to mental health issues. Learning to identify and challenge these thoughts is instrumental to improving mental health and overall wellbeing.

• Practice gratitude: Focusing on the positive aspects of life and cultivating gratitude can significantly contribute to improved mental health and wellbeing.

In addition to raising general awareness, National Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity for communities and agencies like ours to unite around promoting mental health education and combating the stigma associated with mental illness. Together, we can develop a culture of understanding and compassion that ensures everyone has access to the support they need—while helping to create a society that fosters mental health and resilience.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who work diligently to prioritize community mental health and champion the cause of mental wellbeing.