When:
🗓️ May
Where:
🌐 Everywhere
Since:
1949
🧠💭
Created by Mental Health America in 1949
The start of May marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to focus on our wellbeing and curiosity about mental health.
But what’s mental health? Is it just another way to say “I’m feeling sad”? Absolutely not! Mental health is a complex issue that is just as important as physical health, but unfortunately, it’s often overlooked.
This month is all about shedding light on the importance of taking care of our mental health. It’s not just about feeling happy, but also about feeling safe, loved, and heard.
So, let’s all take a moment to celebrate our own well-being, shall we?
Mental Health in the Past:
History shows us that mental health care has come a long way, but there’s still a long way to go.
Mental health has always been an important issue, but the way it has been dealt with in the past is not something we should be proud of. Spoiler alert: it’s not always pretty.
From being locked up in asylums to undergoing shock therapy, or even the infamous lobotomies, the history of mental health care is not a pretty one.
People who were somewhat less unlucky were often dismissed and their problems ignored, which is why it’s so important to prioritize our own mental health, even if others don’t seem to understand.
We can see how far we’ve progressed, but there’s still a stigma around mental health.
But, let’s take this month to reflect on how far we’ve come and how much further we have to go.
The Origin of Mental Health Awareness Month:
Mental Health Awareness Month was created in 1949 by Mental Health America.
It takes place in May, but why May? Maybe it’s because it’s such a beautiful month, with flowers blooming and birds chirping. Or maybe it’s because Mental Health America just really loves alliteration. We may never know for sure.
Let’s Get This Party Started:
It’s time to celebrate our mental health like it’s our birthday!
This month is full of activities, from attending seminars and workshops to joining support groups. Attend a local event, take a mental health day from work, try therapy, or even just practice setting boundaries.
You can also take a mental health day or try new relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga.
And don’t forget to involve your loved ones, because mental health affects us all.
Plus, sharing on social media with the right hashtags, #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #MentalHealthMatters, is a great way to spread awareness.
Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s necessary.
Stay Safe, Stay Sane:
Whether you’re attending events or practicing relaxation techniques at home, it’s important to take precautions.
Make sure to take breaks and move around. Dancing every now and then is not only fun but it exercises both your body and your soul.
Stay hydrated. Be sure to drink several glasses of water throughout the day. The human brain is approximately 75% water so be sure to feed your thirsty brain.
And remember to give your animal companions some attention as well. Being bored is bad for their mental wellbeing. Giving attention and some exercise probably does them a lot of good.
In Conclusion:
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and Mental Health Awareness Month is a great opportunity to celebrate and spread awareness, even when others around you may not understand its importance.
So, let’s all embrace our weirdness and celebrate this month with all the enthusiasm we can muster. And if anyone asks why you’re celebrating, just tell them Wild Calendar gave you permission to do so.
Take care of yourself and have a happy Mental Health Awareness Month!
#May #MentalHealthMonth #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth