May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of mental health and the impact it has on our daily lives. Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being and affects how we think, feel, and behave. Unfortunately, mental health issues are common and affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. In fact, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States experiences mental illness each year.
The theme of this year's Mental Health Awareness Month is "Tools 2 Thrive," emphasizing the importance of taking steps to prioritize mental health and build resilience. This theme is especially important in light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has had a significant impact on mental health. The pandemic has led to increased feelings of stress, anxiety, and isolation, and has made it more challenging for people to access the support they need.
One of the most important tools for promoting mental health is education. By understanding mental health and learning about different mental health conditions, we can better recognize when we or someone we know may be experiencing symptoms and seek appropriate help. This includes learning about the signs and symptoms of mental illness, how to access mental health services, and how to support loved ones who are struggling.
Another important tool for promoting mental health is self-care. This includes activities that help us take care of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Examples of self-care activities include exercise, getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in hobbies or activities that bring us joy.
As a trauma recovery coach, and a life coach with a Masters in Depth Psychology, I have dedicated my life to educating, supporting, and coaching people. I teach about the effects of childhood trauma, and everyday stress, on our mental and physical health, and offer support and guidance on the importance of self-care and its impact on our mental health.
Seeking professional help is also a crucial tool for promoting mental health. There is no shame in seeking support from a mental health professional, and doing so can help individuals learn more, thus increasing understanding and awareness, manage symptoms, improve relationships, and develop adaptive and coping skills. There are many different types of mental health professionals, including therapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and coaches and it may take some trial and error to find the right fit. It's important that you find the right professional and the right service for you.
In conclusion, Mental Health Awareness Month is a crucial time to recognize the importance of mental health and take steps to prioritize it. By educating ourselves about mental health, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help when needed, we can build resilience and improve our overall well-being. Let's use this month as an opportunity to start conversations about mental health, reduce stigma, and promote the importance of seeking help when we need it.
Bradley Hall is a certified trauma recovery coach and a certified mindfulness instructor. He also has a Masters’s degree in Depth Psychology and Archetypal studies from Pacifica Graduate Institute. He is the founder of the LIT Academy, an online community designed to educate and empower people to help them overcome obstacles and hardships in their lives and create the life they’ve always dreamed of. His podcast, The Bradley Hall Show is a podcast dedicated to sharing important information to help others make informed decisions about their health and happiness. Bradley also currently serves as the CEO of the NPE Friends Fellowship, and non-profit committed to providing support and education, as well as promoting awareness, for individuals who have discovered that one of both of their parents is not their biological parent. Find out more at www.thebradleyhall.com