Your guide to a mentally healthy week
This year’s Mental Health Week is all about unmasking mental health. It’s an opportunity to break down stigma and have open conversations about mental health.
Unmasking mental health: why it matters
Too often, people feel pressured to hide their struggles behind a “mask” to avoid judgment. But the truth is, mental health affects everyone, and no one should feel like they have to hide. Everyone should be able to be seen and valued for who they are!
Mental health is something we should talk about all year round. Whether it’s Mental Health Week or just a regular day, learning about mental health helps us understand ourselves and others, develop skills to care for our well-being, support those around us, and reduce stigma in our communities. The more we learn, listen, and share, the more we create a world where no one has to mask their struggles.
What’s behind your stress mask?
If your brain feels like it’s juggling a million tabs at once, you’re not alone. Stress is real, and so many of us “mask” it by keeping busy, cracking jokes, or pretending we’re fine. But you don’t have to carry it all alone.
Here are a few things to try when stress creeps in:
- 4-4-4 breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4. Repeat as many times as you need.
- Move your body: A short walk, a stretch, or even dancing in your room counts!
- Write it out: Journaling (or even a quick brain dump) can help clear mental clutter.
- Get outside or open a window: Fresh air and sunlight can do wonders. You can even try one of the other strategies outside!
These are just a few ideas. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The key is to find what works for you! And most importantly, if you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to say so. Unmasking stress starts with honesty about how you’re doing. No problem is too big or too small to reach out for support.
The social media mask
We all do it. The endless scrolling that turns “just a few minutes” into an hour. But have you ever noticed how social media makes you feel? Have you ever questioned where the information on social media comes from or how much of it is actually true?
ThriveSMH and Pros’pairs SMS teamed up to create a three-part video podcast about social media and mental health.
Your mental space is precious. Take time to be mindful of what you consume and how it affects you. Setting boundaries with social media can be a powerful way to care for your mental health.
Taking off the mask
As we wrap up this week, remember that you’re always worthy of care, love, and support.
What’s one small way you can show up more authentically? Maybe it’s being honest when someone asks how you’re doing. Maybe it’s giving yourself grace when you have a tough day. Whatever it is, know that you are enough, exactly as you are.
Some days feel heavy, and when they do, please remember that you don’t have to carry it all by yourself. A lot of us put on a “brave face” because we worry about being judged for struggling. But asking for help is one of the strongest things you can do.
Try this today: Send a quick “thinking of you” text to someone you love. And, if you need support, reach out.
Connection, no matter how small, makes a difference.