Mental Health is Health | Mental Health Awareness Month and Self Care
Mental Health is Health
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. I believe that is something we all need to keep in mind. For me, I have a husband who battles and will battle PTSD. At times, I can struggle with mild anxiety. There should be no shame in this discussion. It is very simple.
Mental Health is Health.
The Lessons We Learned in 2020
Back in 2020, the fear of Covid really crystallized the need to Choose Yourself with kindness and self-care. This is a Flashback Friday to that time because, although (thank goodness!) we are not quarantining, the struggle with chronic illness and the need to choose a path of light and health is still true.
Living with Chronic Illness and Mental Health Challenges
Struggling with chronic illness, I spend a lot of my time indoors, even in bed. This can wear on my mental health.
Fortunately, I have a wonderful partner who draws me out into the sun. Sometimes with pillows and a blanket in tow.
No One Gets Through Life Unscathed
Years ago, Jim Morrison was quoted as saying, “No one gets out of here alive.”
Well, we made it out of 2020 alive (hopefully !), but no one got out of here unscathed.
So today, take a minute, breathe, and accept that it has been a year. Maybe you’ve been sick, or lost a job, or lost a loved one. Or maybe you’re just exhausted by watching it all happen to others. It doesn’t matter how. It doesn’t matter why. What matters is that you acknowledge the cost to your health.
Self-Care Is Not Selfish
Whatever self-care means to you (and yes, I heard that sigh, just because it has become a buzz word, doesn’t mean it isn’t real!) make time for it. Even two minutes for a cup of tea will make a difference. Talk to friends. You are not alone in this. While he had a penchant for the dramatic (and the drugs), Jimmy boy was onto something.
Tell me something you will do for yourself today to care for your mental health.
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FAQs
Why is Mental Health Awareness Month important?
Mental Health Awareness Month helps reduce stigma surrounding mental illness while encouraging open conversations, education, support, and access to care.
How does chronic illness affect mental health?
Chronic illness can contribute to feelings of isolation, anxiety, depression, exhaustion, and emotional burnout due to ongoing physical limitations and stress.
What are simple ways to practice self-care?
Simple self-care practices include resting, drinking water, spending time outdoors, talking to loved ones, journaling, meditating, or taking short mental breaks throughout the day.
Is it normal to feel emotionally exhausted after stressful years like 2020?
Yes. Many people continue to experience emotional fatigue, anxiety, grief, and stress related to the lasting effects of difficult life experiences and global uncertainty.
Why is talking about mental health important?
Open conversations about mental health help normalize seeking support, reduce shame, and remind people they are not alone in their experiences.
