Understanding, Supporting, and Prioritizing Mental Health

‍Part 1: Breaking the Silence

Mental health is something we all have, just like physical health. Yet, for too long, it’s been shrouded in silence, stigma, and misunderstanding. Mental Health Awareness Month, observed every May, is an opportunity to break that silence and bring mental wellness to the forefront of our personal and public lives.

Why Mental Health Awareness Month Is So Important

• 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience a mental illness each year.
• Youth mental health is a growing concern, especially after the pandemic.
• Communities of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, caregivers, and first responders often face unique barriers to care.

This month is about more than statistics—it’s about creating a culture where people feel safe to say, “I’m struggling,” and know they’ll be met with compassion, not shame.

Common Misconceptions to Challenge

• “You can just snap out of it.”
• “Therapy is only for people who are weak or broken.”
• “Talking about mental health makes things worse.”
  These myths only deepen the stigma and prevent people from seeking help.

How to Be a Supporter, Not a Spectator

• Start the conversation. Ask, “How are you, really?”
• Educate yourself. Learn about mental health conditions, signs, and resources.
• Share your own story. Vulnerability opens doors for others.
• Promote wellness. Encourage work/life balance, rest, and healthy coping.
• Challenge toxic narratives. Whether at home or on social media, speak up when you hear harmful stereotypes.

Mental Health at Every Age

• Children: Watch for behavior changes, anxiety, or social withdrawal
• Teens: Talk about stress, identity, pressure, and social media
• Adults: Address burnout, anxiety, trauma, and the weight of responsibility
• Older Adults: Combat isolation and age-related grief or depression

Mental health matters—for everyone, everywhere. And this month is a collective reminder to treat it with the urgency, dignity, and compassion it deserves.

Stay tuned for part two on May 26th, where we’ll go deeper into tools, resources, and personal stories that bring mental health to life.