During the month of May, join Cedar House in participating in Mental Health Awareness Month as we strive to raise awareness about mental health topics to decrease stigma and equip people with helpful, lifesaving information and resources. Here are 5 ways to get involved with Mental Health Awareness Month:
1. Educate Yourself on Mental Health Topics
Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It is the way we think, feel and act. Our mental health also determines how well we are able to handle stress, relate to others, and make decisions. The goal of mental health awareness is to allow the people who are suffering to know that they are not alone and that help is nearby. To start, it can be helpful to take the time to learn about mental health topics including different conditions and their warning signs, ways you can incorporate self-care into your routine, or how to help a loved one who is experiencing a mental illness. The National Institute on Mental Health, The National Alliance on Mental Illness and the American Psychological Association are all reputable sources and great places to start.
2. Take an Online Mental Health Screening
The Mental Health America website offers free online screening questionnaires that you can take if you suspect you may be experiencing a mental health condition such as depression, substance use disorder, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, ADHD, or an eating disorder. If the results suggest you might be living with one of these conditions, we recommended that you connect with a licensed mental health professional next for evaluation and treatment. Cedar House specializes in recovery from addition and co-occurring disorders, and our admissions specialists are just a phone call away.
3. Create A Self-Care Routine
Just as habits like eating well and getting enough sleep can help us preserve our physical health, there are certain habits that can help us preserve our mental health, too. Self-care related to mental health looks different for everyone, so you may need to spend some time figuring out what works for you personally. For instance, you might find that taking regular breaks from social media helps you feel less anxious, that practicing gratitude makes you feel more optimistic, or that regularly journaling about your feelings helps you feel more balanced. Research suggests that maintaining good physical habits, such as exercising regularly, can promote mental health. In addition, meditation can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression and may also be beneficial for those facing challenges related to addiction. Mental Health Awareness Month could be an opportunity for you to look up free videos or try an app to help you learn how to meditate to see if it offers mental health benefits for you. Once you find the activities that seem to bring you positive benefits, try to incorporate them into your regular routine.
4. Check In On Those Around You
One way to raise awareness about mental health illnesses is to talk about them openly. Share your knowledge and information with the people around you in order to keep the conversation going and create a safe space for others to talk about their struggles. People who suffer from mental health issues tend to keep these struggles to themselves. Sending a message to let your loved one know you’re ready to listen can go a long way.
When someone does consider in you, remember the importance of paying close attention to show respect and concern, since they’ve shown their trust in you. This May, commit to being more intentional about checking in on your loved ones to see how they’re doing. If they seem to be coping with some mental health challenges, you can offer support by telling your own story, offering resources, or simply providing a listening ear.
5. Support A Mental Health Organization
There are countless organizations out there that aim to support the mental health of the public in various ways. This Mental Health Awareness Month, consider getting involved with one of these in some way. Cedar House is always looking for new supporters. You can help us grow and serve more individuals in need by visiting our website to learn more and make a donation, or by simply following us on social media. Leverage your own social media to educate and raise awareness for mental health by sharing some of the information and inspiration you’ll find on our pages. You never know when your message might reach someone in their time of need.
