We are beginning Mental Health Awareness month which is May!

It is not something separate or less important than our physical health. Our emotional and mental wellbeing affects everything- how we think, how we connect with others, how we cope with stress, and how we show up in our lives.

However, there is still a lot of stigma associated with discussing or addressing mental health issues. People are often told to “toughen up” or “get over it” which can be very damaging. You would not tell someone to with a broken arm to ‘get over it” or “think positive” the pain will go away. So why do we say things like that to people who are struggling mentally or emotionally?

Everyone goes through tough times or feels overwhelmed sometimes. That does not make you weak, it makes you human. So, we must make it OK, to say you are not Ok and talk about therapy. The more we open these conversations the more we create a space for healing, connection, and real understanding. 

As we celebrate Mental Health awareness Month this month, I believe it is important to continue to remind people that at the end of the day, Mental Health Is Health and we must start treating it that way.

Timeka Harper-Purcell LCSW, LCASA