May is Mental Health Awareness Month
By Tawanna L. Scruggs-Cottrell, MS
May is designated Mental Health Awareness Month, yet many individuals may not fully grasp its significance. The objective of Mental Health Awareness Month is to increase public awareness regarding mental health and mental illness, diminish stigma, and promote overall well-being.
Mental health is emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing our thoughts, feelings, and actions. Conversely, mental illnesses involve alterations in emotion, cognition, or behavior and can be associated with distress or difficulties in functioning within social, occupational, or familial contexts. While there is a distinct difference between mental health and mental illness, it is common for people to conflate the two when discussing mental health.
What constitutes mental health for you as an individual? Observing your current state and assessing your emotional, psychological, and social well-being is essential. Emotional well-being involves a sense of meaning and purpose, the capability to pursue self-defined objectives, and an overall positive condition of one's emotions and life satisfaction. Additionally, it encompasses the balance of social relationships, feelings, and thoughts. The essence of emotional health pertains to how you think and feel.
Psychological well-being is characterized by the absence of negative emotions and the presence of positive feelings, which contribute to good self-esteem. This involves achieving internal harmony regarding mental, emotional, subjective, and psychosocial health. Psychological well-being includes life satisfaction, happiness, and an awareness of one's life purpose.
Social well-being concerns having meaningful and healthy relationships with others. It includes maintaining a supportive network of family and friends.
Mental illness or mental disorders manifest as changes in health conditions that affect an individual's emotions, thinking, and behavior. These conditions are categorized under various names based on the specific issues the person is experiencing, including Clinical Depression, Anxiety Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Schizophrenia, and PTSD. Public stigma surrounding mental illness stems from a general lack of understanding about what these conditions entail. This stigma often deters individuals from seeking treatment or adhering to prescribed medicines. Self-stigma occurs when individuals with mental health conditions internalize negative perceptions about themselves, leading to feelings of abnormality. Additionally, structural stigma refers to laws, policies, and regulations that restrict the rights of individuals with mental health conditions.
Reducing stigma involves several key actions: engaging in open discussions about mental health, utilizing non-stigmatizing language, demonstrating empathy and acceptance towards individuals with mental illness, and educating both individuals and the public on topics related to mental health and mental illness. Providing accurate information and context is essential while refraining from perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Maintaining good mental health requires attention to several aspects of one's well-being. It is essential to prioritize physical health by exercising regularly, adopting a balanced diet, and ensuring adequate sleep. Managing stress levels is crucial and can be achieved through mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga. Participating in relaxation activities, such as listening to music, pursuing hobbies, or spending time outdoors, can also contribute to overall mental well-being. Identifying and addressing stressors, understanding their origins, and developing healthy coping mechanisms are critical steps in managing stress effectively. Building strong social connections, including engaging with family and friends, and establishing a support system when needed, are vital components of maintaining positive mental health. Practicing gratitude and fostering positive thinking can enhance one's mental state and appreciation for life and relationships.
If professional assistance is required, it is advisable to contact a mental health specialist. Various treatments, including therapy, medication, and other forms of intervention, are available to manage mental health conditions effectively. Prioritizing self-care is crucial for maintaining mental well-being; attending to one's needs should not be perceived as self-indulgent.
Resources: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 1-800-273-8255, 988 Textline, 2-1-1, Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-7233. Psychology Today to search for a therapist.