More Than Just a Hashtag: Mental Health Awareness Month

Let’s Talk About Mental Health!

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. While we've made strides in bringing mental health into the conversation, there's still a long road ahead.

Understanding the Stats

The Stats Are In—and They're Alarming

• Over 20% of U.S. adults experienced mental illness in 2021, which equates to more than 50 million people.

• Among adolescents aged 12–17, 20.3% had a diagnosed mental or behavioral health condition in 2023.

• Depression rates among individuals aged 12 and older increased from 8.2% in 2013–2014 to 13.1% in 2021–2023. (Mental Health By the Numbers - NAMI, [PDF] National Survey of Children's Health Adolescent Mental and ..., Products - Data Briefs - Number 527 - April 2025 - CDC)

  
  

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

The Essence of 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; neglecting one affects the other.

Understanding The Connection

Mental health and physical health are interdependent. When one is compromised, the other suffers. It is crucial to recognize this connection to foster a holistic approach to well-being.

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.

Embracing Change: Gen Z and Mental Health

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. While this may not always be accurate information, they are engaging in conversations about mental health! 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.

Everyday Support: Tips for Mental Well-Being

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, improving mood and reducing 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, cool 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, and sit in the quiet. If you feel anxious after a few minutes, try to push through and allow your heart rate to settle as it adjusts to the less noise.

• Social Connections: Maintaining relationships provides emotional support and a sense of belonging. Reach out—make a call or text someone you haven't talked to in a while. Be open to going out for an hour or two.

  
  

Taking Action Together

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. We must create environments—at home, at work, and 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.