What You Should Know About Mental Health Month in May and Why It Matters
- Katie Mcatee
- May 14
- 3 min read
May is all about shining a light on mental health—something just as important as physical health.
It's a time to spread awareness, break the stigma, and find ways to support ourselves and the people around us
LEARN MORE, ASK QUESTIONS, START A CONVERSATION OR SIMPLY JUST CHECK IN ON YOUR LOVED ONES.
Every little bit helps.
So I put together some key highlights of mental health (month), it's significance and how you can play a role in this initiative!
Understanding Mental Health
Mental health is all about how we think, feel, and connect with others. It affects how we handle stress, make decisions, and go about our daily lives. And the truth is, anyone can struggle with it—it's more common than people realize.
Statistics suggest that 1 in 5 adults experience mental health challenges at some point in their lives.
By recognizing Mental Health Month, we contribute to a larger movement aiming to uplift those struggling with mental health challenges and cultivate understanding among all.
Learning about mental health can help clear up misconceptions and make it easier to understand what people are going through!
Listening and Learning
Hearing people's personal stories is one of the best ways to build empathy and understanding. Check out blogs, podcasts, or community forums where folks openly share their experiences—it’s a great way to see things from different perspectives. The more we listen, the more we grow, and that can make a real impact in our communities.
Taking Action Beyond May
Let’s keep the energy going beyond May and make mental health part of our everyday conversations. The more we talk about it and support each other, the stronger our communities become!
Here are some of the most common mental health disorders:
Anxiety disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder)
Depression and other mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder)
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa)
Personality disorders (e.g., borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder)
Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.
Here are some conditions that might not traditionally be seen as mental health disorders but can have significant mental health implications:
Sleep disorders (e.g., insomnia, sleep apnea)
Chronic stress or burnout
Substance use disorders (e.g., alcohol or drug dependency)
Chronic pain conditions (e.g., fibromyalgia, migraines)
Adjustment disorders (difficulty coping with life changes)
Gaming or internet addiction
Body dysmorphic disorder (preoccupation with perceived physical flaws)
These conditions often intersect with mental health and can impact emotional well-being.
Here are some factors that might indicate it's time to seek help from a psychiatrist or support group:
Persistent sadness or hopelessness that doesn't improve over time.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions that interferes with daily life.
Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or oversleeping.
Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed.
Excessive worry, fear, or anxiety that feels overwhelming.
Mood swings or intense emotional reactions.
Social withdrawal or avoiding friends and family.
Substance use as a way to cope with emotions.
Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues without a clear medical cause.
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide (this requires immediate attention).
If any of these resonate, reaching out to a professional or support group can provide guidance and relief.
As Mental Health Month rolls in, let's keep the conversation going—raising awareness, showing support, and breaking the stigma. When we come together, we make a real impact, improving lives and creating a future where mental health is prioritized every day.
"Am I going mad? Yes, you're mad, bonkers, off the top of your head...but...I'll tell you a secret. All the best people are."
-- "Alice in Wonderland"
Get in a sticky situation with me!
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-- Katie Mac--
(Decal Diva)
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