In recognition of Mental Health Month, we are pleased to share resources about prioritizing your own mental health, tips for talking about mental health and organizations that provide valuable support.
We value our community's commitment to raising awareness for mental health issues - thank you for believing in our mission and that #MentalHealthMatters.
Self-Care 101
Taking care of oneself can look different for everyone.
Practice self-care by...
-
Disconnecting from the media: turning off the tv and logging off of social media
-
Practicing yoga and meditation
-
Helping others, through volunteer work or random acts of kindness
-
Eating a healthy snack and drinking plenty of water
-
Spending time in nature
-
Knitting, crocheting, creating something with your hands
-
Enjoying the arts - taking in a performance, listening to music or painting
-
Coloring in mindfulness coloring books
-
Keeping a gratitude journal
-
Watching a funny movie
-
Reading
-
Hanging a copy of "50 Ways to Take a Break" (right) in your room or office, like many of our staff
The tips above have been collected by our staff. Want to contribute your own? Email us at development@mhawestchester.org.
Let's Talk About It
The words we use when talking about mental health matter. Words have a direct impact and can be a powerful force to reduce – or perpetuate – stigma. From casual conversations and flippant phrases to serious discussions with someone experiencing a mental health issue, your words are important.
We know that navigating what to say – and how to say it – can be difficult. Often we are at a loss, and sometimes we worry about making a difficult situation worse. We hope the following suggestions will be helpful. We welcome your thoughts and feedback at development@mhawestchester.org.
-
Person-centered, person-first language. People are so much more than their diagnosis. Refer to an individual as someone who has “been diagnosed with schizophrenia” or “is living with schizophrenia” rather than “a schizophrenic.”
-
Individuals who live with mental health issues are coping with significant challenges that may impact every aspect of their life. Your understanding and respect is clear if you refrain from invoking diagnoses in “humorous” or deprecating ways in casual conversation. For example, joking about being “OCD” about cleaning trivializes the experience of someone actually living with the disorder.
-
Being compassionate when talking about suicide helps remove stigma. Language such as “died by suicide” is preferred to “committed suicide,” which is understood to evoke negative connotations such as in “committed a crime” or “committed a sin.”
-
Model appropriate language to express strong feelings.
-
When someone is struggling, often the most valuable assistance you can provide is by listening. Listen empathetically, without judgement, advice-giving or minimizing their experience of the problem. This is especially important if you are talking with someone who is thinking of suicide.
-
Check in with friends, family, coworkers and neighbors. Asking “how are you doing?” or “how can I help” – and meaning it – provides an opportunity for open conversation. It also fosters a sense of community. Camaraderie can have a powerful and positive impact on everyone involved.
-
In an age where technology can often isolate us, make the effort for a face-to-face conversation. Pick up the phone, meet for coffee, make a real connection.
By making slight changes to how you talk about mental health, you can take an active role in breaking down stigma. Your voice matters. Thank you for using it to make a difference in someone else’s life!