Taking Action During Mental Illness Awareness Month

Taking Action During Mental Illness Awareness Month

Mental health is an integral component of living a healthy lifestyle. It’s essential to recognize the signs of mental illness and where to find support when needed.

In the United States alone, an estimated 53 million people suffer from mental illnesses; this includes 6% of adults and 17% of youth. While awareness about mental health is growing, there remains much stigma and misinformation surrounding its treatment.

Mental Health Awareness Month provides an opportunity for individuals to take steps towards making their lives and those around them healthier. Even small actions can make a big difference.

Meditation and quiet time are excellent opportunities to practice mindfulness, which has been known to improve moods, reduce anxiety, and boost happiness levels. If your company doesn’t already provide this benefit, create a space in the office where employees can take brief meditation breaks during work hours.

Mindfulness isn’t just about relaxing; it’s about being aware of the present moment and your environment. A meditation app can give you an overview of your emotional state as well as help connect you to both body and mind.

Yoga is an effective way to reduce stress and keep your muscles flexible. If you don’t have access to a yoga studio, hire an instructor to come directly to your office or invite instructors from another nearby studio for group instruction.

Massaging is an excellent way to relax and prioritize self-care. If you have the money, why not hire a masseuse to come directly to your office for an hour or two?