May is Mental Health Month: Making a Commitment to Mental Wellness This and Every Month

“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” — Fred Rogers

April showers bring May flowers—and Mental Health Awareness Month. As we head into spring, it’s important to take a moment to reflect on the importance of mental wellness and to raise awareness about mental health conditions that affect millions of people every day. Whether you’re a long-time advocate of mental health or just beginning your healing journey, Mental Health Awareness Month is an important time to prioritize your emotional and psychological well-being.

The Importance of Mental Health

Mental health is just as important as physical health. It influences how we think, feel, and behave, and it shapes how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices in our lives. Good mental health isn’t just the absence of mental illness—it’s a state of wellness where you feel connected, resilient, and able to navigate life’s challenges.

However, mental health struggles are common. One in five adults in the US experiences mental illness each year. Yet, many people are reluctant to seek help due to stigma, misunderstanding, or fear of judgment. During Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s essential to acknowledge the importance of seeking help, whether through professional counseling, self-care practices, or support from loved ones.

Breaking the Stigma

For far too long, mental health has been surrounded by stigma. There is a misconception that struggling, or seeking help, is a sign of weakness. But the truth is that recognizing when you need help and reaching out for support is a sign of strength and courage. Just as you would visit a doctor for physical aches and pains, it’s important to treat your mental health with the same care and concern. Whether you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or any other emotional struggle, you’re definitely not alone. There is no shame in seeking help. In fact, the more we talk openly and honestly about mental health, the more we can help to reduce stigma and encourage those in need to seek support.

Why Mental Health Matters

The impact of mental health affects relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. Poor mental health can lead to difficulties in managing emotions, making decisions, or interacting with others. Chronic stress, unresolved trauma, or long-term mental health conditions can also have a direct impact on your physical health, leading to conditions such as heart disease, digestive issues, or even chronic pain. By taking care of your mental health, you’re improving not only your own brain but also your entire body.

Tips for Improving Your Mental Health

Mental health is an ongoing journey, and there are many steps you can take to support emotional wellness. Here are a few practical tips to help you improve and maintain good mental health:

1. Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths and hot stone massages—it’s about listening to what your body and mind really need. Get enough sleep, eat nourishing foods, and move your body on a regular basis. Take breaks when you need them and make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
2. Stay Connected: Although it can be tempting to seek solitude when not feeling well, isolation can actually worsen feelings of anxiety or depression. Try to spend time with loved ones, build strong relationships, and don’t hesitate to lean on your support network—people and pets—when you need help. Connection is one of the keys to healing.
3. Practice Mindfulness: In our western society, many of us tend to live in the past or the future, which can cause feelings of depression and anxiety, respectively. Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, breathing exercises, and journaling, can help calm the mind and bring us back to the present moment. Learning to live more mindfully can help manage negative thoughts, reduce stress, and foster a more positive outlook.
4. Seek Professional Support: A mental health professional can provide you with tools, guidance, and support as you work through any challenges you may be facing. Therapy can help you understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and help you develop healthy coping strategies to improve your mental wellness.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help: If you’re struggling, it’s okay to ask for help. You don’t have to go through tough times alone. Whether it’s through friends, family, or professional help, reaching out for support can make a world of difference in your healing journey.

The Role of Therapy in Mental Health

Therapy is a powerful tool in supporting mental health. It provides a safe, nonjudgmental, and confidential space to explore difficult emotions, past trauma, or current challenges. A therapist can teach you specific skills to cope with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and more, all while helping you build resilience to equip you to face life’s ups and downs in a healthier way.

At Deepwater Counseling, we believe in the transformative power of therapy. Our goal is to help those who are suffering develop deeper self-awareness, process difficult emotions, and create lasting change. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to us here or contact info@deepwatermichigan.com or 734.776.8251.

By Jennifer Blough, LPC