May is the month where we strive to gain a global awareness of mental health issues in our world. Often mental health is referred to as a sense of well-being while attempting to avoid the stigma of labels, judgements or lack of knowledge about mental health in our world.
A sense of well-being is a positive state of health, happiness and prosperity. It refers to the whole person and encompasses good physical health, the ability to manage stress positively, meaningful social relationships and purpose in work and personal aspirations. Where there are deficits to any of these areas, the stressors become glaringly apparent and serve as roadblocks to that sense of well-being.
There are lots of activities promoted by varied mental health organizations such as the National Institute of Mental Health (NAMI) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). These organizations and many more community activities are designed to promote perceptions and activities of understanding, support and normalization of the condition of our mental health.
In spite of all the social media, awareness campaigns, supports and related opportunities to find our sense of deep internal well-being, we find that our world continues to struggle with anxiety, depression, fear, violence and related mental deficits. I have often written about the condition of our youth community and all the struggles that continue to exist and seem to be growing in prevalence and severity. There are significant threats that feel ominous and extremely concerning to many of us. There are genuine reasons why many of us have fears that lead to a sense of personal and community destabilization.
Maintaining a sense of well-being is possible when we have learned to cope with our stressors. We are intentional about creating ways to recognize our stress responses, regulate our emotions and practice healthy life routines and habits that will bring us strength, stability and resilience. It is not only about mental perception but also about sensory activities that will bring us internal peace and an ability to protect our psychological beings.
Even in the midst of life concerns, we must be cognizant that we exist in community. We need our families, our support systems, our teachers, mentors and friends to help us with all that we face in the varied activities of our lives. It is important not to be isolated or from the very systems of support that surround us.
Where necessary we also should turn to those who can help us when we are feeling overwhelmed with life obstacles. Places like Lakeside exist for those who struggle and need answers that can be found in intentionally designed environments for healing and hope. In difficult moments there are hotlines where those who are struggling intensely can call. You can even text 988 in the US and Canada for anxiety, panic attacks, or emotional distress. It is a free, confidential, 24/7 service connecting you with trained counselors who provide support for mental health crises, not just suicide. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org.
Mental health is something each of us can create. If we are self-aware, engaged in a healthy community, knowledgeable to know what we need to do to personally cope with our stressors, establish good supports, and when necessary reach out to professional help, we can promote positive mental health. We also can be a support to those around if we proactively engage and make sure they too find the support they need. It is why we raise awareness for those in our lives that we care about for a pursuit of hopeful well-being.
Gerry Vassar
President/CEO
