In 2023, Mental Health Month Encourages Us to “Look Around, Look Within”
May is Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness and promote understanding of mental health issues, and to encourage people to seek help when needed. This year’s theme, “Look Around, Look Within,” emphasizes the importance of being mindful of both our own mental health and the well-being of those around us.
The theme serves as a reminder that mental health is not just an individual issue, but a collective one that involves the people in our lives and the communities we live in. It encourages us to take a step back and consider how our mental well-being is influenced by our relationships, environments, and social support systems.
Looking around means being aware of the mental health of those around us, including friends, family, colleagues, and community members. It’s important to check in with others, offer support, and be willing to have open and honest conversations about mental health. This can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and create a more supportive environment for those who may be struggling.
Looking within, on the other hand, means taking the time to reflect on our own mental health and well-being. It involves being honest with ourselves about how we’re feeling, acknowledging any stress, anxiety, or depression we may be experiencing, and seeking help if needed. It’s a reminder that self-care and self-awareness are essential components of maintaining good mental health.
The theme also underscores the idea that mental health is interconnected with other aspects of our lives, such as physical health, social relationships, and work environments. Taking a holistic approach to mental health means addressing all of these areas in order to promote overall well-being.
This year’s Mental Health Month comes at a time when many people are still feeling the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has brought increased stress, anxiety, and isolation for many. The theme “Look Around, Look Within” is particularly relevant in this context, as it encourages us to be mindful of the mental health challenges facing our communities and to take proactive steps to support and care for ourselves and others.
As we observe Mental Health Month in 2023, let’s make a commitment to “Look Around, Look Within” and prioritize mental health for ourselves and those around us. By doing so, we can contribute to creating a more supportive and compassionate society where mental health is valued, understood, and prioritized.