May is Mental Health Awareness Month
May is mental health awareness month. Recognizing how important it is to take care of yourself and asking for support extends beyond this month, and deserves a place in conversation throughout the year. Life is constantly changing and the possible challenges that come with such changes can take a toll on us. Checking-in with yourself, loved ones, or even seeking support from mental health professionals are just a couple of the ways to make sure that we can honor how we are feeling and how it may impact how we are showing up in our relationships and everyday life. This can be a way to begin to establish connections in a world that can feel very isolating at times, because no one should feel like they must work through what they are struggling with alone.
The stigmatization of mental health difficulties has created a society where many still today feel like asking for help is a sign of weakness. As a result of this, society has taught us to focus on what is wrong or deficient rather than the many strengths that are a part of us all. In an ever-shifting world, there has been a recent change in perspective where the topic of mental health has been met with more openness and curiosity, which has allowed those to feel more comfortable expressing themselves in this way. Giving more space to speak and express concerns related to mental health has allowed for awareness as well as acceptance to be more widely spread. Speaking and expressing our concerns to one another, unlike how many of us have learned, is a powerful way in which we can find our way back to ourselves and our loved ones. Connection, meaning, confidence, and feeling more relaxed are just a few areas of personal growth that we may notice. It all starts with checking in with yourself and using the strength that every person has within themselves; asking for help when they need it. At Child and Family Development, we would love to be a part of helping you discover your strengths and support your mental health care needs. Taking the first step toward counseling isn’t always easy. Our counselors offer free phone consultations to answer your questions, help you feel more comfortable, and guide you in getting started.
Happy Mental Health Awareness Month!
If you or someone you love is in crisis and in need of immediate mental health support, call or text 988 for a 24-hour helpline.
