The question is what can you do to get involved? How can you participate in Mental Health Month? There are many possible answers; find one that works for you.
- Get resources you can use to inform and educate throughout Mental Health Month—both online and off.
- Encourage your friends and loved ones to be screened for mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression and substance use. There is no harm in being screened!
- Reach out to a local support group, or a group that educates kids about mental health and substance use disorders. Volunteer to share your story of struggle and recovery.
- Take some time to educate yourself about mental health and some of the issues that relate to it. Expand your sense of empathy for those who are struggling.
- Pledge to be stigma-free in the way you talk about mental health disorders; be thoughtful about never using dehumanizing language or slang.
- Above all, be open to sharing your story. Do not hesitate to talk about the importance of mental health with the people you love. Your candor can be a powerful tool in breaking down stigma.
Mental health awareness is something we need much more of—not just now, but always. Mental Health Month is a good way to start building it, and to take the conversation about mental health to a better place.
What will you do for Mental Health Month? Tell us!