May & Mental Health - A Holistic View
Hello!
With May being Mental Health Awareness Month I wanted to shine the spotlight on mental health and how it affects our lives. Let’s face it, we ALL will have times in our lives when our mental health becomes a challenge. It can be a diagnosis, a family issue with a loved one, work-related, relationship related or just something we’ve managed our entire lives.
Caring for our mental health is part of a holistic approach to our health and well being and we need to care for our mental health as much as we care for our physical health.
Taking care of ourselves in all ways - physical, mental, spiritual - allows us to live a vibrant, long and healthy life.
What exactly is mental health? Read on!
I’m delighted to share this blog post written below by my good friend, Carrie Miller, a seasoned and licensed therapist. She has a particular passion for working with children, adolescents, and adults who are navigating all types of life struggles. She believes in championing people who are trying to make sense of the uncertainties of life and she specializes in grief and loss whether that is due to death or other life losses and transitions.
Carrie Miller, LCSW
Experienced Therapist & Grief counselor
Trauma Care
Reiki Master & Practitioner
Certified Funeral Officiant & Celebrant
Professional Trainer in Grief & Loss
Written by Carrie Miller:
“In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to overlook the state of our mental well-being. Just as we prioritize our physical health, it's important to pay attention to our mental health as well. May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the importance of mental wellness, breaking stigmas, and fostering understanding and support.
Mental health is a universal human experience. Each of us, at some point in our lives, will struggle with our mental well-being, whether due to stress, anxiety, depression, or grief. Current statistics show that one in five and one in six children are currently living with a mental health condition. Recognizing this shared experience is the first step towards creating a culture of empathy and support.
Mental Health Awareness Month provides a great opportunity to break the silence and stigma. By bringing these discussions into the open, we can empower each other to seek help without fear of judgment. It's essential to recognize that mental health conditions are not a sign of weakness but rather a reflection of the combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Just as we wouldn't blame someone for having diabetes or asthma, we shouldn't blame or shame individuals facing mental health challenges. Instead, we should offer compassion, understanding, and support. One of my favorite reminders to myself, friends, family, and clients is “it’s okay to not be okay.”
During Mental Health Awareness Month, let's encourage each other to prioritize self-care and resilience-building activities. Whether it's taking a walk in nature, practicing meditation, or spending quality time with loved ones, small actions can make a big difference in how we feel.
No one should face mental health challenges alone. Building a supportive network is essential for promoting resilience and healing. Whether it's through classes, support groups, or therapy, connecting with others who understand and empathize with our experiences can provide
comfort, hope, and encouragement.
So today is our reminder to reach out to those around us (and check in on our own hearts!) and offer support to those who may be struggling. A simple conversation, a listening ear, or a gesture of kindness can make a world of difference to someone in need.”
For more information and resources, please visit:
Carrie Miller, LCSW, is a therapist with Hope and Healing Tampa Bay, LLC www.hopeandhealingtampabay.com
If you would like to reach out to Carrie, please click here and your message will go directly to her.
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