Last Updated on May 8, 2024
In the United States, Mental Health Awareness Month was started by MHA (Mental Health America) and has been recognized ever since. The main aim is to spread awareness about mental health, delegitimize the stigma surrounding mental illnesses, and educate the public about the trauma and impact mental illnesses can have on not only the individual’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being but also their families and the community.
How did Mental Health Awareness Month start?
Concerned about marginalized social groups in the US, The American author, journalist, teacher, and mental health advocate Bebe More Campbell stressed the national importance of mental health. Motivated by her struggle to find support for her daughter, who battled mental health issues, Campbell founded NAMI-Inglewood in a predominantly black neighborhood, a refuge for everyone seeking open and assuring discussions about mental health. Campbell’s endeavors also brought her to Washington D.C., where she proved the realities of the struggles unrepresented groups in the US faced to Congress.
Why in May?
May holds significance for mental health not only for metaphorical reasons but for practical ones as well. Firstly, as a transition period from spring to summer, May is associated with a period of growth, renewal, and rejuvenation – a fitting metaphor for tending to one’s mental well-being, an often overlooked but vital factor to emotional and physical well-being.
Secondly, Mental Health Awareness Month also aligns with other significant events, such as Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week and National Prevention Week. May is thus dedicated to various aspects of mental health between different groups of people, to all of whom mental health marks an equally important element of well-being.
Why Mental Health Awareness Month is important?
Mental Health Awareness Month’s main importance lies in raising awareness about mental health issues and the importance of mental health and taking a proactive approach to mental health practices.
This is achieved through educating the public about the resources they have at their disposal through campaigns, community events, social media, and discussions encouraged by various organizations. Furthermore, individuals afflicted by mental illnesses are encouraged to seek support from family members or loved ones, aiming to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues and build a support network. Most importantly, the significance of this endeavor becomes starkly clear when observing the prevalence of mental health conditions in the US alone.
What does Mental Health Awareness Month promote?
Although the number of people afflicted by mental illnesses is a cause for concern, it is initiatives such as Mental Health Awareness Month that foster change on a global scale. The influence of Mental Health Awareness Month extends far beyond the borders of the US, as mental health is a multilaterally shared experience, regardless of background or culture.
Mental Health Awareness Month is thus a catalyst for conversations and policies on a global scale, promoting equal access to facilities and resources supporting mental well-being. What is essential to Mental Health Awareness Month and the aspect that fosters change the most are proactive strategies. Some of the key proactive strategies advocated throughout Mental Health Awareness Month are the following:
Mental Health Awareness is a time for Self-care strategies
- Getting regular exercise: 30 minutes of even moderate exercise, such as walking, can improve overall health. The amount of exercise, however, can also be split throughout the day.
- Nutritious meals and staying hydrated: A balanced diet and sufficient water intake boost energy and focus throughout the day and affect emotional well-being.
- Relaxing activities: Incorporating meditation, breathing exercises, or relaxing activities into the daily routine may lower stress and lower the risk of illness.
- Sleep as a priority: Sticking to a sleep schedule and reducing blue light from devices before sleep is a vital element of every self-care strategy.
Stress-management techniques
Stress, though often viewed negatively, is a component of mental health and everyday life. It serves as a natural response to challenges, motivating growth and adaptation. When managed effectively, stress can enhance resilience and productivity. Understanding its role in our lives allows for healthier coping strategies and fosters a balanced approach to mental well-being.
- Taking a break from new stimuli: Although times fly by while scrolling through social media or watching a TV show, it is important to limit the input of new information and disconnect from all electronic devices, even for just a brief period of time during the day.
- Talking to others: Sharing our feelings with people we trust lightens our load and prevents stress from building up.
- Taking care of one’s body: As mentioned above, self-care elements such as sleep, relaxation, and exercise are integral to combating stress and any mental affliction one might suffer from.
Mindfulness
Preoccupation with dilemmas such as time planning, problem-solving, or attributing negative thoughts to various potential scenarios may be mentally exhausting. Because of this, mindfulness consists of a form of meditation emphasizing heightened awareness of present sensations and emotions, without the interpretation of these sensations. Engaging in mindfulness means employing techniques like controlled breathing and guided imagery to induce relaxation and alleviate stress. A few examples of mindfulness practices are:
- Paying attention: Our everyday world and experiences are usually fast-paced. Slowing down and experiencing the moment thoroughly when, for example, tasting our favorite food, can motivate us to enjoy that moment more.
- Focusing on breathing: Sitting down for a moment, closing our eyes, and focusing on our breathing as our breath moves throughout the body may help us control our negative emotions when they start to win us over.
- Sitting meditation: Find a comfortable seating position with your back straight, feet grounded, and hands relaxed in your lap. Breathe naturally through your nose, centering your attention on the sensation of your breath flowing in and out. Should you be distracted, acknowledge the distraction, and then start focusing on your breath again.
Addressing mental health disparities during Mental Health Awareness Month
As mentioned, from the very beginning, Bebe More Campbell recognized the urgency of addressing the discrepancy in access to different mental health facilities among different social groups. According to a study published by the American Public Health Association, people with the lowest level of socioeconomic status are 2 to 3 times more likely to suffer from a mental disorder than those with the highest status.
On a positive note, the study also shows how the number of studies that explore this phenomenon has been growing throughout the years. Because of this, during Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s crucial to highlight and address mental health disparities. Marginalized communities often face barriers to care, including stigma and limited resources. Advocating for equitable access to mental health services and support is essential for fostering inclusive, compassionate communities.
Conclusion
Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a pivotal opportunity to reflect on the progress made in mental health advocacy while acknowledging the ongoing challenges and disparities that persist. From its origins, rooted in the tireless efforts of individuals like Bebe Moore Campbell, to its global impact today, Mental Health Awareness Month continues to be a catalyst for change.
The significance of Mental Health Awareness Month lies in raising awareness about mental health issues and in promoting proactive strategies for mental wellness. By educating the public, challenging stigma, and advocating for access to resources and support services for all individuals in our community, regardless of social group, we can create a world where mental well-being is valued, supported, and celebrated.
