Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness month? It’s a great time to raise awareness about mental health and break the stigma surrounding mental illness. Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet many people still feel ashamed or embarrassed to seek help. It’s important to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are many resources available for those who need it.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 1 in 5 adults in the United States experience mental illness each year. That’s over 50 million people! We want to help everyone take care of themselves, so this May we’ve put together a short list of ways that you can help strengthen your mental health:

1. Practice Self-care

Self-care is essential for mental health, and it turns out a large part of it is taking care of our physical needs. Try your best to get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and engage in exercises you enjoy. It’s also important to set boundaries and prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. Need some help setting those boundaries? Here’s a video to get you started: 

2. Stay Connected

As adults, it can feel especially difficult to make friends, but having a quality social support system is crucial for mental health. If you’re looking to meet new people, you might want to try out some of the ideas on this list. You’ll feel better if you stay connected with friends and family, and seek out support groups or counseling if needed. 

3. Manage Stress

Unfortunately, life is full of stress. Whether it comes from work, family, health (hello global pandemic), or anywhere else, stress can take a toll on your mental health. The good news? There are ways to combat stress, like practicing mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. Try a few of these tips to get started.

4. Seek Help

There is no shame in seeking professional help for any mental health concerns you might be experiencing. Therapy, medication, and other treatments can be effective in managing mental illness and improving overall well-being. The first step is to find a therapist that is a good fit for you. Explore PDG therapists here or read how to find a good therapist here.

5. Educate Yourself & Others

Finally, learn more about mental health, talk about it, and help break the stigma surrounding mental illness. Educate yourself and others about the importance of mental health and the resources available for those who need it.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, we hope you remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and there are many resources available for those who need it. By practicing self-care, staying connected, managing stress, seeking professional help, and educating yourself and others, you can strengthen your mental health and support others in doing the same.

If you need immediate help, dial 988.

To learn about mental health statistics, visit NAMI.