Mental Health Awareness Month by Julia Salerno, MS, LAC

How are you? 

The common answer to this question is, “fine” or “I’m fine,” but really, are you just “fine?” 

The stigma associated with answering anything but “fine” or answering with our actual real authentic feelings and emotions is still a fear that many of us hold. Many of us still feel that our mental health needs to be in the shadows or that we still need to put on our mask to go out into the world and portray this ‘happy’ or ‘I have everything together!’ attitude. 

And listen, I get it. Sometimes it does feel easier to just say, “I’m fine” or “Everything is great!” Parts of me just find it easier to put my actual thoughts and feelings aside to put on my own mask. 

And maybe we feel we have to ‘project’ this inauthentic self to the world to prove something…maybe we feel we always have to be strong…maybe we feel we have to be fine for others…

However, I am here to tell you that during this month especially (and hopefully from now on!) it is OKAY to not be fine…actually it is okay to be 

Upset

Angry 

Love

Fearful 

Peaceful 

Lost 

Nervous

Joyful 

Anxious

Happy  

Now more than ever, is it more pertinent to recognize the role mental health plays in our overall well-being and the value of receiving treatment. Mental health is important for all of us to hold space for. We need to take care of ourselves mentally and emotionally, because it impacts how we connect with others, the decisions that we make, our ability to handle stress and other important aspects of our daily lives. 

The month of May is Mental Health Awareness month. This month not only allows us to educate and raise awareness surrounding mental health and treatment options, but it focuses on reducing the stigma associated with mental illness. There are so many misconceptions and stigmas surrounding mental health issues and that is a major reason why many who suffer from mental health issues suffer in silence. And a major reason why we put on our masks and say, “I’m fine.” 

During this particular month, I challenge you to allow yourself to be your authentic Self in safe spaces. Allow your authentic emotions to shine through, in real time! This month I encourage you to take down the mask and put your fears away…be real! If you're feeling sad, say it! If your anxious mind is ruminating, don’t discount it! If parts of you are struggling with sadness and depression…let someone in to help! 

It is time to celebrate how we feel. It is time to provide ourselves and others with an understanding and curious space to challenge stigmas, talk openly about mental health and to provide support! 

If you or a loved one are looking for mental health support for trauma recovery, depression, anxiety, eating disorder recovery or substance abuse treatment, reach out today. We have therapists available in person or for online therapy who specialize in EMDR, DBT, IFS, child psychology and more.

Start your healing journey today by scheduling a free 15 minute phone consultation with a therapist in Philadelphia and the Main Line.