5/13/2026
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. It’s a time to learn more about mental health and to break down the stigma that can make it hard to talk about. Life can be stressful for everyone, and sometimes people don’t feel their best—and that’s okay. Taking care of our mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health.
Recently, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shared information and resources to support mental well‑being. They highlighted a few important ways to care for your mental health:
- Understand emotions: It’s normal to feel a wide range of emotions, including difficult ones. Noticing and accepting how we feel is an important first step.
- Seek support: Talking with a friend, family member, or mental health professional can help. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength.
- Practice self‑care: Activities like exercise, mindfulness or meditation, and hobbies you enjoy can help reduce stress and improve well‑being.
- Challenge stigma: When we create supportive and understanding environments, it becomes easier for people to ask for help and get the care they need.
This Mental Health Awareness Month take time to prioritize your mental health and support others around you. Remember, it’s okay to not feel okay—and help is available. Together, we can build a kinder, more understanding world where mental health is treated with care and respect.
Helpful Mental Health Resources:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMI provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental illness. They offer various resources including support groups, helplines, and educational materials.
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): NIMH is a leading research organization that provides information on mental health disorders, treatment options, and ongoing clinical trials. Their website offers valuable resources for individuals seeking information on mental health.
- Mental Health America (MHA): MHA is a community-based nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of those living with mental illness and promoting mental wellness. They offer screening tools, educational resources, and advocacy initiatives.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): SAMHSA is a government agency that provides resources and treatment referrals for individuals struggling with mental health and substance use disorders. They offer a national helpline (1-800-662-HELP) and an online treatment locator.
- 988 is a three-digit telephone number in the United States chosen as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. By dialing 988, individuals in crisis can be connected to trained counselors who can provide support, resources, and help. This number aims to make it easier for people experiencing mental health crises to access help quickly and easily.