The month of May is notable in many ways, including Free Comic Book Day, Star Wars Day, Mother’s Day, World Goth Day, Memorial Day, and most notably for me, my birthday. But more importantly, it is Mental Health Awareness Month, which encourages people to be open about their struggles and share their stories. A common misconception is that only people with a diagnosis need to think about their mental health. Arguably, it may be even more important for those that don’t have a formal diagnosis. They’re often the ones who struggle in silence, just maintaining the status quo.
Being mentally healthy can be defined simply as having the ability to navigate life’s challenges with a sense of stability, meaning, and connection. The philosopher Marcus Aurelius said, “Very little is needed to make a happy life; it is all within yourself.” As a Roman Emperor, Marcus Aurelius wouldn’t exactly be the type of person you typically would associate with mental health. However, his stoic philosophy focused on one core idea: control what you can and let go of what you cannot. Similarly, the Buddha taught, “Peace comes within. Do not seek it without.” From a mental health standpoint, these two very different philosophers point to the same idea: happiness with oneself and not external factors are the key to living a good and healthy life. While happiness is not the sole purpose of taking good care of yourself and your mental health, it is part of a solid foundation. One more quote to round things off: in the Apple TV show Shrinking, one of the characters sums it up perfectly, “How can I be any good for anyone in my life if I’m not happy myself?” In order to be a functioning person in life, one that is able to handle life’s daily struggles, and strives for a sense of belonging in the world, it is imperative to be conscious of your mental health and that of the ,. Life is not always going to be sunshine and roses, and there will be many days that make you question everything in life. That’s why it is important to acknowledge that sometimes it’s okay to not be okay. It’s more than acceptable to admit when you’re not at your best mentally and need help or need space. The stigma around this has evolved over time, but it’s still a prominent part of our society and something that everyone should acknowledge. That is why, for the month of May, many take pause to check in not just with themselves but each other. We live in a time where there are so many factors that can compound mental health issues. In our society, we are always connected, yet there is an epidemic of loneliness. With expectations of instant gratification, thousands of “friends”we never connect with, and doomscrolling for a quick serotonin fix.
With all of the geeky days this month, my birthday, and Mental Health Awareness Month, I’m challenging myself to write or create something every day all month. Finding a creative outlet such as writing, drawing, painting, or creating music is just one of many ways you can take good care of your mental health. As I set forth to meet this challenge, I hope you’ll join me, and find a way every day to check in with yourselves and your mental health.
Lao Tzu said “ A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” If you or someone is struggling and needs help, remember you are not alone and there are resources to help.
📞 Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
💬 Chat online at the 988 Lifeline website
🧭 Explore tools and resources at NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
🤝 Find support groups and local help through Mental Health America
Until next time, take care of yourself and each other. Live long and prosper. 🖖
Very well written and great facts and so true. I hope your month of May is the best ever.
I believe your article deserves to be published in a magazine, or a place where others can fully acknowledge, and appreciate, your thoughts and personal input. I, for one, am extremely proud of you and your desire to help others.