This article was written in collaboration with Marriage and Family Therapist Oscar R. Lora
As we begin the month of May, we also recognize the start of Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma, and deepening our understanding of mental health in everyday life.
Just like physical health, mental health plays a crucial role in overall wellness. It affects how we think, feel, and interact with the world around us. This month is a reminder to prioritize our mental wellbeing and engage in practices that support a healthy, balanced life.
Understanding Mental Health
According to the CDC, mental health is a component of behavioral health that includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It is a state of well-being that allows us to cope with stress, relate to others, understand our abilities, and make decisions.
Many factors affect mental health. Marriage and Family Therapist Oscar R. Lora explains, “The factors that are currently affecting people’s mental wellbeing are the stressors that come from everyday life.” Those stressors include but are not limited to work, school, finances, relationships (e.g., romantic, familial, and friendships), and major life changes. In many cases, mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can stem from those daily stressors, as well as trauma from past life experiences.
Social connection also plays a prominent role. “Connectivity is a big factor, and on the opposite side of that is loneliness,” Lora said. “Especially with the rise of social media, it is hard for people to connect in a world where everything is superficial.” He explained that people are lacking that physical human-to-human connection and the intimacy friendships used to have before social media took over. While social media may help people stay connected, Lora highlighted that people need “organic relationships,” where people spend time and connect in-person as well.
Additionally, genetics and family history are contributors to a person’s mental health. Biological factors such as prenatal damage, age, brain chemistry, and serious physical health conditions (e.g., cancer, diabetes, neurological conditions, and autoimmune diseases) play a significant role as well.
Lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity, and sleep quality have meaningful impacts that should not be ignored.
Breaking the Stigma
Mental Health Awareness Month is important because the stigma surrounding mental health still exists. Misinformation portrays individuals with mental illness as weak, unstable, or oftentimes dangerous. The misconceptions have made it difficult for people to seek help due to the fear of being misunderstood, discriminated against, or judged.
Mental Health America established May as Mental Health Awareness Month in 1949, with the intention of raising awareness and breaking the stigma.
Society has come a long way in terms of how mental health is understood. Over time, open discussions have become more normalized. It is spoken about more often, rather than being a subject that was once silenced. There are more resources that encourage people to get help, as well as educational resources so people have an accurate understanding of what mental health really means and what the specific conditions are.
Even though progress has been made over generations, there is still work to be done. This month is meant to break the stigma by encouraging more open conversations, educating ourselves and others, and showing compassion to those experiencing mental illness.
Building Awareness Through Education
This time is also an opportunity to learn more and build an accurate understanding of mental health. One way to do so is by exploring reputable online resources. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers free educational programs, evidence-based resources, workshops, and seminars. NAMI also provides advocacy and support for individuals with mental health conditions, as well as their families, friends, and the broader community.
Additionally, Psychology Today provides articles and blogs on a range of topics related to mental health, as well as a directory for therapists in your local area. Filters can be selected to identify providers who accept your insurance, specific concerns, or provide sessions based on your preference (in person, phone, or virtual).
Reading books, watching videos, and listening to podcasts can deepen your understanding as well. Following mental health professionals and advocates on social media is another way to stay informed, as they share tips, information, and resources to promote awareness.
Education plays a key role in breaking the stigma. It reduces the misconceptions by encouraging empathy and understanding.
Be Kind to Your Mind
A healthy mind is the foundation of a fulfilling life. Dedicating time to self-care is essential for maintaining peace of mind. This can include regular exercise, self-reflection, practicing gratitude, getting enough sleep, a healthy diet, and pursuing hobbies that bring joy and relaxation.
Connecting with family, friends, and even an animal can also provide comfort and a meaningful sense of belonging. Talking to a mental health professional offers guidance and valuable insight.
Together, these practices build resilience and foster a healthy, balanced mindset. Prioritizing mental health is not only for the month of May. It is a lifelong practice that deserves care, compassion, and attention every day.
About Oscar
Oscar R. Lora is a Marriage & Family Therapist based in Palm Springs, Florida. He specializes in addiction, anxiety, family and adolescents, and depression. Lora established his own private practice, Center for Holistic Living, where he offers in-person and virtual sessions. Lora is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for his clients to openly express themselves while working toward their mental health goals. Contact Oscar at CenterForHolisticLiving@gmail.com, (561) 783-5968, or check out his Psychology Today profile below for more information!
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/oscar-r-lora-palm-springs-fl/1161397
