Mental Health Awareness Month: 10 Things Everyone Should Know about Mental Health

Mental Health is a crucial part of our overall wellness, yet it is still often misunderstood or overlooked. Whether you are working on navigating your own mental health journey or are trying to support someone else, understanding some important pieces of mental health can make a difference. Below are ten things that everyone should know about mental health: 

1. Mental Health Affects Everyone

Mental Health is different from mental illness. While mental illness includes different symptoms that may impact one's ability to function in their daily lives, mental health is about someone's emotional, physical and social wellbeing both positively and negatively. Mental health influences how we are able to cope with life, relate to others in our lives and make decisions. Similar to physical health, everyone has mental health and it changes throughout our lives depending on circumstances, stressors and support systems. 

2. It's Okay to Not Be Okay

Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, angry, frustrated and anxious are all valid emotions and are natural reactions to situations that may occur based on life's circumstances. Suppressing emotions can lead to more overwhelming emotions over time. Acknowledging your feelings and allowing yourself to feel them is a powerful step towards healing. 

3. Mental Illness is Common

The prevalence of mental illness is more common than you may think. In fact, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (2022), more than 1 in 5 adults in the US experience mental illness. Mental health conditions impact individuals of all ages, backgrounds and lifestyles. Understanding the prevalence of these conditions helps normalize them and improves our ability to have more open conversations around them. 

4. Stigma Still Exists - But it Shouldn't

Despite increased awareness around mental health, many individuals still face judgement or discrimination due to seeking help. This stigma can prevent those who experience challenges with their mental health from talking about it and getting the support that they need. By having open conversations, challenging stereotypes and showing kindness towards others, we can create a more accepting and supportive environment for those facing mental health struggles. 

5. Early Intervention is Important

The earlier that someone is able to identify that they may be struggling, the better the chances are that they are able to seek support and work towards their healing journey. Warning signs may include changes in sleep, self-isolation, lack of appetite or energy and behavior changes. Early support can help these conditions from worsening. 

6. Self-Care is Not Selfish

Self-care is about participating in relaxing activities to maintain your mental and emotional wellness. These activities can refill your cup and help you stay motivated to complete other tasks. Prioritizing self-care helps your ability to cope with life's challenges as they arise. 

7. Therapy Is for Everyone 

Talking to a mental health professional can help you process emotions, navigate life transitions and build coping skills in a comfortable space. Therapy can also be used as a proactive tool even when you may already have these skills to manage these transitions or emotions rather than using therapy as a last resort when you may be struggling. 

8. Mind and Body Connection

The mind and body are deeply connected. If you are stressed and overwhelmed, this can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive problems and chronic health issues. However, participating in physical activity, sleep, and eating a regular, nutritious diet can play a big role in maintaining a balanced mental well-being. 

9. Lean on Your Supports

Having someone to talk to who you trust can be important. Whether it is friend, family member, therapist or a group of people, connection and support can reduce feelings of isolation and improve feelings of belongingness. It can also help you to have a space to process emotions when life starts to become stressful. 

10. Healing is Not Linear

Mental health challenges can feel overwhelming, and the healing process is not a step-by-step process. With the right treatment, supports, lifestyle changes and giving yourself grace, you can begin your steps towards healing. Healing is not about being "cured", rather it is about being able to make circumstances feel more manageable. 

Mental health is a lifelong journey that deserves attention, compassion and care. By educating ourselves and supporting one another, we can begin to reduce the stigma around mental health and empower those who need support to seek help when they need it.

Meet The Author

Samantha Burns, MA, LPC

Samantha is the administrative assistant for Flourish Counseling & Wellness. Samantha is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado and enjoys working with adolescents and young adults who are experiencing challenges with trauma, depression and anxiety.