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More Than Just a Hashtag: Mental Health Awareness Month

Updated: May 3

Let’s Talk About It!


May is Mental Health Awareness Month. But let's be honest—mental health isn't just a monthly theme; it's the backdrop of our daily lives. It's the silent partner in our successes and the loud critic in our challenges. And while we've made strides in bringing mental health into the conversation, there's still a long road ahead.


The Stats Are In—and They're Alarming

These aren't just numbers; they're our friends, family members, and colleagues.


mental health

Mental Health: The Unsung Hero of Physical Health

We often separate mental and physical health, but the two are intrinsically linked. Chronic stress and mental health disorders can lead to physical ailments like heart disease, weakened immune function, and gastrointestinal issues. Conversely, physical health problems can exacerbate mental health conditions.


It's a two-way street, and neglecting one affects the other.


Learning New Skills: Easier Said Than Done

Learning a new skill or adapting to change requires cognitive flexibility, focus, and motivation—all of which can be compromised by mental health struggles. High stress levels impair cognitive functions, making concentrating, processing information, and retaining new knowledge harder. (The mental health benefits of learning a new skill - Upskilled, Influence of Stress and Emotions in the Learning Process)


So, if you're finding it hard to pick up that new hobby or adapt to a new work process, it's not just you—it's your brain under stress.


Gen Z: Breaking the Stigma

The younger generations are more open about mental health than ever before. They talk about it on social media, in classrooms, and among peers(it may not all be accurate, but they are talking!) However, they still face significant challenges, including high rates of anxiety and depression.


Their openness is a call to action for the rest of us: to listen, learn, and support.


A childs mental health is important

Beyond the Obvious: Supporting Mental Health in Everyday Life


  • Routine Matters: Establishing daily routines can provide a sense of normalcy and control.

  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. Just a walk can do so much for your physical and mental health.

  • Sleep Hygiene: Quality sleep is crucial for emotional regulation and cognitive function. Regular bedtimes, comfortable spaces, cold rooms, and darkness support sleep rhythms.

  • Mindful Consumption: Be aware of your media intake; constant exposure to negative news can heighten anxiety. Turn off the electronics, take the earbuds out, sit in the quiet. (You will be anxious after a few minutes, try to push through and feel your heart rate come down as it adjusts to the less noise.)

  • Social Connections: Maintaining relationships provides emotional support and a sense of belonging. Make the call, text the person you haven't talked to in a while, and be open to going out for an hour or two.


A Call to Action


Mental health is not a luxury; it's a necessity.


It's time we treat it as such. Let's move beyond awareness to action. Let's create environments—at home, at work, in our communities—where mental health is prioritized, and seeking help is normalized.


Because at the end of the day, mental health is health.




Cary M. Hamilton is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor-Supervisor, Child Mental Health Specialist, Certified Autplay Therapy Supervisor and Registered Play Therapy Supervisor with over 22+ years of experience in clinical practice, education, and advocacy. As the Director of Play Therapy at Antioch University Seattle and the owner of Olympia Therapy, a thriving multi-location group practice, Cary combines her expertise with a heartfelt commitment to supporting children and families.

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