Since 1949, May has recognized Mental Health Awareness Month to address the challenges and stigma often surrounding mental health conditions. This month of awareness is intended for open dialogue to foster learning and cultivate empathy and understanding.
This year’s Mental Health Awareness Month theme focuses on Where to Start: Mental Health in a Changing World. In a society that is constantly evolving, it can be overwhelming to navigate the various challenges and changes happening around us. While mental health is more widely discussed, it can still be hard to know “Where to Start” when everyday stressors are starting to make their impact.
Often, the first step is the most difficult. Acknowledging to yourself that you need help and support is no easy feat. Navigating the “how are you” question with genuine responses to family, friends, or colleagues can be overwhelming. Below are a few resources to help you self-reflect and better understand when you aren’t actually fine and how to share that with others. Click on the links for tips on recognizing when someone around you might be having difficulties.
- Things You Can Say When You’re Not Fine
- What To Say When Someone Tells You They’re Fine But They’re Not
WEAR GREEN AND SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH!
Did you know that 1 in 5 Americans will experience a diagnosable mental health condition this year? By joining the “Be Seen in Green” challenge for Mental Health Awareness Month this May, you’re not just wearing green but shining a light of hope and support on mental health for millions.
Get Involved!
Support your well-being and have some fun in the process! Greenbrier’s Mental Well-Being Employee Resource Group (ERG) encourages everyone to participate in an activity related to the pillars of self-care to support your well-being while having some fun in the process.
Below are four pillars of self-care and a few ideas for taking action:
Resources and Tools
Taking care of your mental health looks different for everyone and it’s important to know “Where To Start”. Mental Health America shares “tool sheets” in several categories to help us navigate through various issues we face every day. Check out the links below for a few tools that can help you support your well-being.
- Things Likely Affecting Your Mental Health
- Negative News Coverage and Mental Health
- Building Your Coping Toolbox
Greenbrier encourages employees to take this month to reflect, learn and cultivate community to support each other’s well-being. Through resources like the Mental Well-Being ERG, we can create a safe environment for employees to seek help in friendship, dialogue and education.