Did you know that there is a month devoted to mental health? May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to learn about ways to feel well and to better cope with stress. This is a great time to spread awareness, become educated, advocate for those who are suffering and share resources.

In the past, people didn’t hear much about this topic. Thankfully, we now know the importance of mental health and of breaking the stigma of mental illness.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) website, the message for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month is “In Every Story, There’s Strength.” On nami.org, it states, “Mental health journeys are unique, but the strength found within them is universal. ‘In Every Story, There’s Strength,’ highlights the resilience and diverse experiences that shape mental health journeys within our community. NAMI’s campaign celebrates the power of storytelling to fuel connection, understanding, and hope for those navigating their own mental health path.”

In fact, on NAMI’s website, users can submit their written or video story. These personal stories may help others to have the courage to get help or to know how to help loved ones. Some questions to get you started could be: What have you learned on your mental health journey? What inspires you to support mental health? What do you share with your friends or family in moments when they need support?

In addition to talking about mental health, how else can we increase and maintain ours? According to Mental Health America, mhanational.org, making good choices about food and nutrition, engaging in regular exercise, healthy sleep habits, building our coping skills, having a positive support system of family members and friends, and practicing stress management can all help.

Making a point to practice daily self-care can help us to feel better overall and to be prepared mentally when difficult things occur. Take a few minutes each day to practice meditation and mindfulness, read a good book, listen to music, take a walk and go outside every day – no matter the weather. Whatever self-care means to us, whatever helps us to feel peace and well-being, we can begin today to put it into place. Of course, if we are really struggling, reaching out to someone for help is the best thing to do.

Let’s use this month to get into the habits of speaking up, seeking help and taking care. Make mental health a priority for yourself and your loved ones.