May is Mental Health Month. Here are some ways to raise your awareness for yourself and others around you.
- Talk about it
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Ask people how they’re doing. Tell people how you’re feeling. Never judge.
- Read about it
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Educate yourself! Learn. Read.
- Write it down
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Write down how your feeling for yourself. Or maybe start a blog about mental health awareness for everyone. Include statistics and facts for others to get proper information.
- Use hashtags
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#MHSM (mental health social media) #NDSD (National Depression Screening Day) #NationalMentalHealthMonth All of these are great places to start. Join the discussion. See what others have to say.
- Be supportive
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Help your friends. Be there for them. Listen. Care. Support.
- Watch out for bullying
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Don’t be a bystander. React. Help people out. Bullying can really change someone’s life. If you feel comfortable and safe doing so, try to step in and help out.
- Learn the signs and symptoms
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This way you’re informed for not only yourself but also everyone else.
- Volunteer
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Help out! Check out what your local area’s efforts are. Expand your impact. The National Alliance on Mental Illness is also a great resource for this.
These are just a few suggestions to raise your own understanding and awareness as well as for others around you. If you or someone around you needs help, please seek out a counselor or therapist, as I am not one.