Breaking Down Mental Health Stigma
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national health observance dedicated to shedding light on mental health conditions and fostering understanding and support for those experiencing them. Mental illnesses are among the most common health conditions in the United States.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1 in 5 adults experience a mental health disorder each year. Despite the prevalence of illnesses and increasing recognition of mental health as a critical component of overall well-being, stigma remains a significant barrier to receiving treatment and support. The fear of judgment and discrimination often prevents individuals from seeking help.
It’s imperative to raise awareness and educate others about mental health to combat stigma and create a more compassionate and supportive society. Here are some tips for reducing the stigma associated with mental health.
- Educate yourself and others. Understanding the complexity of mental illness, including substance use disorders, can help dispel misconceptions. Take the time to learn about mental health conditions, symptoms and treatments.
- Talk openly. Break the silence surrounding mental health by initiating open and honest conversations with friends, family and colleagues. By sharing personal experiences or listening without judgment, you can create a safe space for others.
- Choose your words carefully. Avoid stigmatizing words and use person-first language emphasizing the individual, not their condition.
- Encourage equality between physical and mental health conditions. Mental illness is a medical condition, so it should be treated just like a physical ailment.
- Speak up. Is you suspect someone is struggling with their mental health, send them messages of support or help them get on the path to treatment.
By taking proactive steps to reduce mental health stigma, you can help create an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to seek help. Together, we can break down the barriers that stand in the way of healing and acceptance.
Seasonal Eating Health Benefits
It’s normal to see the same produce available year round in today’s market. However, that doesn’t mean the quality is the same throughout the seasons. Eating seasonally helps you take advantage of the harvest schedule. Fortunately, May is peak spring mode and offers a variety of produce. Spring produce include:
- Asparagus
- Artichokes
- Carrots
- Radishes
- Spinach
- Peas
- Peppers
- Strawberries
Not only is spring produce vibrant and fresh tasting, but it also offers health benefits. Picked at the peak of their freshness and nutritional value, spring produce is packed with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, providing a natural boost to your immune system and overall well-being. Eating seasonally also means you’re adding variety to your diet, along with diverse vitamins and minerals. Seasonality depends on where you live, so let nature be your guide at your local farmers market or grocery store.
The Benefits of Active Recovery
A complete fitness routine includes training and strategic recovery. Unlike passive recovery, which involves rest, sitting or inactivity, active recovery keeps you moving and engaged in lowintensity exercises. Active exercises can facilitate faster muscle recovery and enhance performance. Think of it as an add-on to your fitness routine— recovering for 10 to 15 minutes after a strenuous workout or taking it easy the following day. Consider these benefits of active recovery activities:
- Reduced lactic buildup in muscles
- Decreased muscle soreness
- Improved circulation
- Flexibility maintenance
- Injury prevention
Types of Active Recovery
- Stretching
- Walking
- Light Resistance Training
- Cycling
Mental Health In America and How to Get Help
More than half of adults in the United States will experience mental illness—which refers to a variety of conditions that affect one’s mood, behavior, feelings or thinking—at some point in their life. Mental illnesses can occur occasionally, while others are chronic. Mental Health Awareness Month, observed every May, is a time to raise awareness about mental health, break the stigma and support people with mental illness. Access to mental health care is crucial to helping many individuals receive the support necessary for treatment and recovery. However, roughly half of adults with mental illness in the United States don’t receive the treatment they need. Common barriers include the high costs of and difficulty accessing mental health care, mental health professional shortages, and the stigma associated with mental health.
Each condition has its own symptoms, but here are some common signs of mental illness:
- Excessive fears and worries
- Prolonged sadness or irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in eating habits or weight
- Changes in sleeping habits or energy
- Growing inability to cope with daily life
- Social withdrawal
- Substance misuse
- Suicidal thoughts
If you’re worried, speak to your doctor who can connect you with a mental health expert. Your insurance company can also give you a list of covered providers. If there’s a crisis, reach out to 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for support.
Spring Cleaning Your Mindset
Spring isn’t just for tidying up your closet; it’s also perfect for refreshing your mind. Regular self-check-ins can reduce stress and promote a sense of control. Here are some tips to freshen up your routine and nurture a healthy mindset this spring:
- Declutter your space. Clearing clutter can reduce stress and boost mood by refreshing your environment.
- Let go of negative thinking patterns. Letting go of negative thoughts or beliefs can help make space for healthier ideas & behaviors.
- Practice gratitude. To improve your perspective, be intentional about choosing positivity. Start a gratitude journal or meditate to foster a positive outlook.
- Make time for hobbies. Just like you’d honor a work meeting or personal appointment, participate in activities and hobbies that fulfill you & bring joy.
- Spend time outdoors. Spring is perfect for reconnecting with nature. Try walking, enjoying your drink outdoors, or moving your workout outside.
- Connect with others. As winter ends, seize the opportunity to reconnect with loved ones and have meaningful conversations.
Spring is a time of new beginnings and growth, so use this seasonal change to reset your mind and commit to healthy practices and behaviors. Determine where your mental energy is best spent this season, prioritizing what matters most.