May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and breaking down the stigma that often surrounds mental illness. It’s an opportunity to remind ourselves and others that mental health is as important as physical health. Not paying attention to our mental health can hurt us on so many levels and debilitate our physical health and all other facets of life.

Understanding Mental Health

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act in daily activities. It also influences how we handle stress, relate to others, and influence our choices. Mental health issues can affect anyone, irrespective of age, gender, socioeconomic status, or background.

The Importance of Seeking Help

Often, people hesitate to seek help for mental health issues due to stigma, fear of judgment, or simply not recognizing the signs in themselves. Acknowledging that you might need help is a significant first step. Getting treatment can provide the tools needed to help manage mental health effectively. Utilizing the tools and keeping the conversation open allows you to get the support you need and help the recovery process.

How to Get Help

1. Talk to Someone: Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a professional, sharing how you feel is the starting point.

2. Consult a Professional: A mental health professional can provide a diagnosis and provide a treatment plan that suits your needs.

3. Use Online Resources: Many organizations offer online resources and support groups that can provide guidance and connect you to others facing similar challenges. Please note that CalCPA Health medical subscribers can access LiveHealth Online and visit a therapist or psychologist from anywhere with access to a laptop, tablet, or mobile device and internet connection.

4. Emergency Help: If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, reaching out to emergency services can provide support and intervention right away. For information on emergency services for those in crisis or having suicidal thoughts, call the suicide prevention hotline 988 or visit online for resources or chat function.

Ending the Stigma

Being open about mental health can normalize these conversations and encourage more people to seek help. Sharing personal experiences and supporting those who are dealing with mental health issues are powerful ways to fight the stigma.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s pledge to be open about our mental health, to support others without judgment, and to seek help when needed. Remember, it’s okay not to be okay, and it’s more than okay to ask for help.