"One in five people will experience a mental illness at some point. It’s very common. It’s also treatable. However, stigma prevents us from talking about our mental well-being with the comfort and ease that we talk about what’s good for our teeth. Being open with each other, practicing self-care, and getting professional help when needed reduces stigma and makes mental health as regular as brushing your teeth and seeing a dentist. Here are some ways to get started:
- Talk with friends and family about your mental health self-care practices or routines, whatever they are. Ask others about what they do.
- If you know someone who is struggling or who has a mental illness, ask things like, “How does this feel for you?” “How can I support you?” “Do you want to talk? Or go for a walk? Or just hang out? I’m here to listen or just be quiet together.”
- Be honest about treatment. If you see a therapist, psychiatrist, or other professional, be willing to talk about that with friends and family, just like you might if you needed a filling or your wisdom teeth removed.
- Share supportive messages about mental health and mental wellness on social media, such as these Chillers."
Source: Change to Chill
Reflection Question: What are your mental health self-care practices/routines? Who can help you develop them if you don't have them established?
