My Mental Health School’s Post

As Mental Health Awareness Month begins in May, I'm committed to sharing insights on mental health through a series of articles. Today, I'd like to delve into a common yet often overlooked aspect: the casual greeting question that often goes unanswered, and really often is not expected to be. 🤔 "How are you?" Seems like a simple question, right? But have you ever stopped to think about how difficult it can be to answer? For many of us, this seemingly innocuous question can actually carry a lot of weight. It's not just a casual inquiry about our well-being; it's often a social cue or a gateway to deeper conversation. And sometimes, it can catch us off guard. When someone asks "How are you?" we might feel compelled to respond with a quick "I'm fine, thanks!" even if we're not really fine. We might hesitate to open up about our struggles or worries, fearing that we'll burden the other person or dampen the mood. And in some cases, we might even find ourselves grappling with the complexity of our own emotions, unsure of how to put them into words. But here's the thing: it's okay to not be okay. It's okay to admit when we're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just plain exhausted. And it's okay to seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals when we need it. So, the next time someone asks you "How are you?" remember that it's okay to give an honest answer. Whether you're feeling fantastic, frazzled, or somewhere in between, your feelings are valid. And by being authentic in your response, you might just pave the way for a more meaningful connection. Let's break the cycle of surface-level small talk and start having real conversations about how we're really doing. After all, it's through vulnerability and honesty that we truly connect with one another. How do you typically respond to the question "How are you?" Let's start a conversation in the comments below! 👇

Starting the Conversation: How to Talk to Someone About Their Mental Health june 10, 2024 by historyfan We all know that mental health is just as important as physical health. But sometimes, bringing up the topic with someone we care about can feel daunting. How do you approach a sensitive subject without prying? How can you offer support without feeling like a therapist? The good news is, you don’t need all the answers to have a meaningful conversation. Here are some tips to get you started: 1. Choose the right time and place. Find a moment when you can both relax and talk openly. Avoid crowded spaces or when they seem stressed. 2. Start with empathy. Let them know you’ve noticed they haven’t seemed themselves lately. Phrases like “I’ve been worried about you” or “You seem down lately. Is everything okay?” can open the door. 3. Listen actively. Pay attention to their words and body language. Avoid interrupting, and offer simple acknowledgements like “I understand” or “That sounds tough.” 4. Ask open-ended questions. Instead of questions with a yes or no answer, ask things that encourage them to elaborate. For instance, “How are you really feeling?” or “Is there anything I can do to help?” 5. Be patient. It may take time for them to open up. Don’t pressure them or pry for details. Let them know you’re there for them whenever they’re ready to talk. 6. Avoid judgement or fixing. This is their experience, and your role is to listen and support, not offer solutions. 7. Offer support, but don’t overstep. Let them know you care and are there for them. Offer to help them find resources or accompany them to a therapy appointment. 8. Respect their boundaries. If they don’t want to talk, don’t push it. You can always let them know you’re still there for them if they change their mind. 9. Take care of yourself. Helping someone else can be emotionally draining. Make sure you practice self-care and have your own support system. Remember: You don’t have to be a therapist to make a difference. By starting a conversation and offering a listening ear, you can be a beacon of support for someone struggling with their mental health. By working together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and ensure everyone has access to the support they need.

Today marks the beginning of Mental Health Awareness Month. Here's why it's BIGGER than a Month & one of my biggest takeaways. In short, at this point in my journey, I went from: Consistently experiencing depression and anxiety Suicidal ideation since 13 yrs old Multiple substance dependencies since 14 yrs old And today I am: 5+ years in weekly therapy 1002 days of consistent meditation 689 days of sobriety 1 happy dog dad 1 day at a time, Always This is more than a month because my story is one of MANY that go unheard and unnoticed. Whether it's with men or others, taking the approach of sweeping things under the rug has lead to a culture of stigma, shame, and confusion as it pertains to our collective mental health. It doesn't have to be this way. Big and little traumas will likely never stop in the world, but I dream of a society where there are tools readily available for people to find the brighter side of healing from wounds & simply less stigma if they need help or community. And as the raw performer that I am 😂 , I see a world where we stop playing pretend around surface level conversations, and get to REAL LIFE discussions. On that note.... If there is one takeaway I can leave you with for viewing your mental health and life journey. Try your best to differentiate between "I am ______" and "I am experiencing ______" We can sometimes get caught up in claiming things as ours as opposed to recognizing that we are simply experiencing something (easier said than done, I know). A way I learned to think of this is, if every being on the planet has experienced anger, it does not BELONG to you personally. This stands true for being happy, content, sad, joyful. All states of our being are temporary. The objective is not to never experience low points, the objective is to have a regulated mind and system that can handle the ups and downs with grace, patience, and compassion. More to come Healing can look like this.....

Mental health matters. So does the language we use about mental health. Talking about our mental health makes a huge difference (that’s why I open up so often).   But using outdated or derogatory language about mental health can increase any existing stigma surrounding it, which is one of the biggest barriers to many people opening up about their mental health struggles.   Of course, preferred statements and phrases will differ across regions and from person to person, but I’ll share with you what I learnt from my recent Mental First Aid refresher course and also my personal preferences when it comes to speaking about my own mental health.   -         Instead of ‘neurotic/neurosis’ ➡️ ‘disordered’ -         Instead of ‘committed suicide ➡️ ‘died by suicide’ -         Instead of ‘a psycho’ ➡️ ‘a person who has experienced psychosis’ -         Instead of ‘released from hospital’ ➡️ ‘discharged from hospital’   Phrases that I find helpful 💚 -         When I’m feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed: ‘When you’ve felt like this before, what helped?’ -         When I’m low in body confidence: ‘You are so strong and healthy ... It’s not your fault you feel this way, it’s diet culture!’ (This works especially well when accompanied by the middle finger.) -         In general low mood: ‘Everyone feels this way at some point, it really sucks but I know it will pass.’   Of course, what matters most when someone is experiencing a mental health tip is really LISTENING to their concerns and feelings.   If you’re concerned about someone’s mental health, try the following resources (UK) 📞 Call the Mind infoline on 0300 123 3393 Call Samaritans on 116 123 Text SHOUT to 85258   However, if you feel like someone might seriously harm themselves or attempt suicide, they need urgent medical help. Don’t hesitate to call emergency services: ring 999 and ask for an ambulance.   If you need me to listen today, or any day, please just reach out in any way you feel comfortable 💚   #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealthawarenessweek #iliketoproofitproofit #mentalhealth

No one really cares about your mental health—until it morphs into anger and frustration. Sound familiar? This felt close to home when I heard this line while listening to a podcast. It's a harsh reality we navigate. But it uncovers a vital truth: You need to be the front-runner for your mental well-being. And trust me, this isn't about booking lavish vacations or indulging in the occasional spa day (though those are nice). It's about integrating self-care into your daily life and treating mental health as a continuous priority, not a once-in-a-blue-moon check-up. And here's the kicker. Although you might find it as a cliche, self-care isn't just a trend. It's an essential, ongoing practice that demands your attention and understanding. Why? Because mental health isn't a switch you flip on and off. It's a part of you. And overlooking it can lead to consequences that ripple through every aspect of your life—your work, relationships, and beyond. So, I challenge you to do this: Every morning and every night, ask yourself these three questions: 1️⃣ How am I really feeling today? (Don't just skim the surface. Dive deep.) 2️⃣ What do I need right now to feel more at peace or fulfilled? (Is it a break, someone to talk to, or maybe just some fresh air?) 3️⃣ What small step can I take today to address my mental well-being? (Remember, it's the little things that often make the biggest difference.) By asking yourself these questions, you're not just checking in; you're taking control. You're acknowledging that your mental health matters and taking proactive steps to nurture it. Do you agree?

If your New Years resolution this year is to improve your mental health, know that it's definitely possible (and an excellent goal to have!) here are 11 Small changes you can make this year. https://lmsafe.co/YkDK

May is mental health awareness month. But it shouldn't only be talked about in May. Everyone we interact with is affected by someone who is quietly struggling - whether it's themselves or someone they know. Family, friends, coworkers ... we all have things we deal with every day. Sonder is a word and a concept I learned about several years ago. While we are the main character in our own lives, we are but supporting characters in others' lives. Sometimes credited, sometimes not. We can be the hero, the villain, the comedic relief, and/or the best friend. We each have those people in our own lives, too. We all strive to lead rich, full, and happy lives. Some of us struggle daily with seemingly easy tasks, like getting out of bed or preparing a meal. At the end of the day, we are not the main character in everyone else's lives. We should be aware of how we interact with those we come in contact with because we never know what the have going on. Being kind and forgiving with people can go a long way for that person - we almost never know the impact we have on others. When considering mental health of others, awareness is one part. But how do we support each other? What can we say that will truly help? What should we avoid saying that really doesn't help ("Oh, you should just be thankful for what you have" or "Cheer up! it's Friday!"). It's also important to realize that "hard" is different for everyone. What you may think is a simple challenge (flat tire, spilling a drink, misspelling a word on a presentation) may seem insurmountable to others. So as we move into Mental Health Awareness Month, read and research and listen. Consider how you impact the world around you. And using May's designation as a platform, how can you make a positive change in your life and in those around you? If you or someone you know is struggling and having a hard time, there are resources. No one is alone. We will feel like we are, even when we have a whole village around us. I know from experience. If you'd like to learn more about setting up a program for your company, I have experience building an employee resource group and would be happy to help you. Or if you just need someone to listen, I am happy to do so.

🌟 Mental Health Awareness Week 🌟 Today marks the start of Mental Health Awareness Week, and this year, it holds a profound significance for me. I must admit, I had never even realised this week existed until now, but recent experiences have highlighted the importance of acknowledging and discussing mental health. At the beginning of January, I lost my sister to mental health struggles. Just three months later, my partner lost his friend for the same reason. Growing up, I didn't understand mental health issues—I was raised to be resilient, and I believe that upbringing shaped who I am today. Fast forward forty years, and my perspective has shifted dramatically. This year, I began counselling, something I never imagined I would do. These recent events have shown me the importance of seeking help, and I believe that’s okay. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in people being open about their mental health. Previously, I didn't understand why they were so vocal. However, this year has taught me the value of talking—to anyone, at any time. There is always someone willing to listen, and there are many alternatives to losing your life. It’s never as hopeless as it may seem. While I may not be the best person to talk to right now, I hope to be that person someday. For now, I encourage everyone to reach out and speak up. Mental health is crucial, and it’s okay to seek help.

Today is World Mental Health Day. Managing my own mental health has been a priority and a life long effort, and more than worth the time and energy I've put into it. Over the last several years - which have been so very stressful for so many of us - I came up with "Sarah's 7 Steps" to give me a strong start to every day. 🌟 Stay off social media (or set a timer <5 min), and turn off notifications 🌟 Exercise (30 minutes or more) 🌟 Write 🌟 Read, even just for a few minutes (poetry and magazines are good for short bursts) 🌟 Write down 3 good things about yesterday (no matter how simple - I'm breathing) 🌟 Write down 3 things I'm looking forward to today (again, no matter how small) 🌟Meditate These are the things that, in combination, work for me and today seems like a good day to share them. When I feel that dip in energy and notice some red flags, I can look back and see that I had been inconsistent in following them. I'll add 5 more from the brilliant Dan Harris (10% Happier Podcast and many other amazing things!): 1) You’re not alone, millions struggle with mental health issues; 2) Progress is rarely linear so don’t beat yourself up if you encounter a setback; 3) Try to remember to have a sense of humor; 4) Being of service helps; 5) Never worry alone. You are not alone!

🌎I just realized that this past Friday, October 10 was World Mental Health Day, and this year’s theme focuses on mental health in the workplace. ⚠️There is no true health without mental health. The first step toward better well-being is acknowledging emotional challenges. Taking care of your mental health whether at work or in life is a sign of strength, not weakness. 📢Most importantly, you are not alone. No one should face mental health struggles in isolation. It’s crucial that we advocate for ourselves and each other. Change happens when we stand up for what’s right. 🤝Together, we can create supportive environments where mental health is valued and protected. 📍What steps are you taking to care for your mental health? #MentalHealthMatters #SpeakUp #WorkplaceWellbeing #YouAreNotAlone