Mental Health Awareness Month an opportunity to make sure we are practicing self-care

By Mark Kaufman, MSW, LICSW • JFCS Therapist

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we continue to live in a world that exposes us to trauma, heartbreak, and fear. The intersectionality of anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, transphobia, heterosexism, racism, sexism, and ablism can make it difficult for people to find spaces in which they feel safe in having their voice heard, leading to increased isolation. Additionally, many in our local community are suffering from the repercussions of Operation Metro Surge in ways that isolate and separate families and has had a significant impact on local small businesses.

Over 18% of adults in the U.S. have received treatment for depression. Reports of increased anxiety from previous years are on the rise as well, and it’s no wonder – the increase in awareness of violence, economic problems, and a news cycle that constantly demands our attention combine to activate our nervous systems.

It seems like our need to take care of our mental health has never been so high. A couple of years ago, I wrote about the mental health benefits of riding a motorcycle. What this is really about for our purposes is the idea that doing something you enjoy and feel confidently skillful at can be a particularly good form of self-care.

Community connection, physical activity when possible (remember, not everyone can be active), mental health treatment, and getting outside are all associated with improved mood and mental health in general. These are not the only answers; often it is difficult to see from the outside just how difficult it is to do some of these things when mental illness can add barriers such as lack of energy and even lack of awareness of a problem.

In addition to bringing awareness to factors impacting our own mental health, Mental Health Awareness Month can be a time to learn more about mental health by attending a Mental Health First Aid course. It may also be a time to engage in mental health advocacy by reaching out to your local NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) chapter or connecting with Mental Health America.

If you would like to meet with a mental health provider, contact JFCS at 952-546-0616. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please dial 9-8-8 or text MN to 741 741. Click here for more information on JFCS’ Counseling team.