NAMI Johnston County NC Inc

Happy New Year! As we step into January, let’s focus on finding small ways to spark positivity, hope, and strength, especially for those navigating the challenges of mental health. Here’s an inspiring thought for each letter in January—a gentle reminder that progress, not perfection, is what matters. J – Just take one step at a time. Healing isn’t a race; every small step is a victory. A – Acknowledge your worth. You are valuable, even on the days it’s hard to see. N – Nurture your mind and body. Rest, eat well, and engage in activities that uplift you. U – Understand that it’s okay to not be okay. Give yourself permission to feel. A – Ask for help when you need it. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. R – Release what you can’t control. Focus on what’s within your power. Y – You are not alone. There’s a community of people who care and want to support you. Let this January be a month of small victories, quiet courage, and deep self-compassion. Whether you’re taking your first step toward healing or continuing your journey, remember: 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 You are stronger than you think, and every day is an opportunity to start anew. What’s one small way you can show kindness to yourself this month?

When you’re struggling, sometimes the hardest person to forgive is often yourself. You might replay moments where you felt you fell short, let others down, or weren’t “strong enough.” These thoughts can become a heavy burden, holding you in a cycle of shame and regret. But here’s the truth: you’re human. 🔹Struggling doesn’t make you weak; it makes you real. 🔸Forgiveness isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about freeing yourself from the weight of it. When you let go of the guilt and self-judgment, that’s when you create space to grow. Growth doesn’t happen in perfection; it happens in the messy, vulnerable process of healing. So, if you’re holding onto blame or regret, ask yourself: What would it feel like to forgive yourself? To give yourself the grace you’d offer a friend in your shoes? Because when you let go, that’s when you grow. And growth is what leads you to the light on the other side of the storm. You’re worth forgiveness. You’re worth healing. Take it one moment at a time, and remember: progress, not perfection. Let go. Grow. Repeat.

The holiday season isn't the easiest for everyone. We are sending everyone who comes into contact with this post love, strength, compassion, and empathy. - Image via 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Don't ever dwell in the past, every day is a clean slate and that means every day is a new beginning!

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a recurring form of depression that usually begins in late fall or winter and lasts into spring, and it impacts millions of people every year. If you are feeling the winter blues right now, you are not alone. Learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for SAD here:

Learning to love yourself isn’t always easy. It’s a journey of peeling back the layers of doubt, fear, and shame that may have built up over time. But when you embrace your authentic self—the truest version of who you are—you begin to see that there’s nothing to hide or apologize for. Self-love isn’t about perfection; it’s about acceptance. When you embrace your authenticity, you’ll find that self-love isn’t something you have to chase—it’s already within you, waiting to be uncovered. #selfawareness #embracingauthenticity #Selfacceptance

Happy Thanksgiving! Today, take a moment to reflect on what truly matters. Practice Gratitude It helps you heal and grow. 🔷Rest and recharge. 🔶Reflect on your journey and progress. 🔹Nourish your soul with positivity and kindness. 🔶Embrace the present moment with calm and mindfulness. Always prioritize your mental well-being and show compassion to yourself ALWAYS and others. You are worthy of peace and joy. Wishing you a day filled with warmth, gratitude, and care.

Sometimes it can often feel like our missteps and mistakes are magnified and judged or worse it may feel like proof that you’re not good enough or capable. Always remember this 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 Making a mistake is NOT failure. It’s GROWTH! 🔹Each mistake is a step forward, even when it doesn’t feel that way. 🔸It’s a lesson learned, a reminder of your humanity, and a sign that you’re trying—and YES growing! Growth can't be measured, it can sometimes be a bit messy, uncomfortable, and full of moments that challenge your strength. But those moments are proof that you’re moving forward, even if it feels like you’re standing still. Mistakes give us insight into what doesn’t work and open doors to new ways of thinking, doing, and being. If you’re struggling today, remember this: your mistakes do not define you. They’re not your identity—they’re stepping stones to the person you’re becoming. Be kind to yourself. Forgive yourself. And most importantly, recognize the courage it takes to keep going, even when it’s hard. What’s one lesson you’ve learned from a mistake that helped you grow? #MentalHealth #GrowthMindset #Resilience #ProgressOverPerfection

I had the honor of representing our Affiliate at the 40th. Anniversary NAMI North Carolina State Conference. I am seated at the Awards Dinner with representatives on NAMI Wake and More Countries.