Hello everyone!
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. We know that typical statistics indicate that approximately 1 in 5 adults have, or will experience, a mental health need. 1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year. However, those numbers have risen during COVID. To that end, it is imperative that mental health providers work to fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families.
As community mental health providers, it may be common to feel like you are running out of tools. That is to be expected. We have spent an entire year in a global pandemic. Clinical “ruts” are developmentally appropriate. To that end, attached are several websites that can assist with expanding your clinical toolbox.
National Alliance on Mental Illness
In addition to activities that we use with our clients, it is important that we also educate and support our own support networks. Technology and social media have connected us more than ever before during times of COVID. Below are some examples of how to educate communities about mental health through the use of social media:
- Happy #MentalHealthMonth! Use a GIF to tell us how you take care of your mental health.
- This #MentalHealthMonth I promise to: (Describe one thing you will try to do for your mental health in May)
- Have you ever considered taking a mental health day? Celebrate #MentalHealthMonth with a little “me” time!
- Happy Mental Health Month! We’ve all been through a lot lately. As we continue to persevere, let’s find joy in making our mental health a priority. What makes you happy?
- Celebrate Mental Health Month by taking a few minutes each day for yourself. Whether it’s a 5-minute meditation or walk around the block, be sure to prioritize your mental health.
- Finish this sentence: I take care of my mental health by: (Describe an activity and attach a supporting graphic or GIF)
- For Mental Health Month, share images that highlight how you feel, or how you manage your mental health. Example: A photo of you with your coffee on a sunny morning. Don’t forget to use the hashtag #MentalHealthMonth!
— A’tasha Christian, LPC, E.d.