There are risks and costs to action. But they are far less than the long range risks of comfortable inaction.
John F. Kennedy
Last week marked World Mental Health Day.
A chance to squash the myths about emotional wellness.
To spread the word about therapy, self-care, and mental health advocacy.
Building awareness is an important step… but it’s not the only step we can take.
Action is where emotional wellness starts becoming a reality for all of us.
So, in honor of World Mental Health Day, we thought we’d provide some practical suggestions to get you started.
Read on for 10 ways to move from mental health awareness… to mental health action:
1. Correct myths about mental health when you hear them.
Mental health action doesn’t have to be complicated. One of the simplest (yet most powerful) ways to effect change is to challenge our own beliefs about emotional wellness. Equipped with accurate information, we’ll be more capable of passing it on!
2. Support businesses that support emotional wellness.
You might feel as though mental health is “too big” as issue for you to influence. But, you have real power, right there in your hands: By exercising your rights as a consumer, you can help support businesses and organizations working for change every day.
3. Help plan emotional wellness programs and events within your local community.
When it comes to taking mental health action, money isn’t the only tool at your disposal. Consider donating your time, creativity, or both(!) to boost the impact of programs in your community and online.
4. Contact your state and local representatives to request increased financial and legislative support of emotional wellness in schools.
You might be just one voice. But, together with voices everywhere, you have the ability to create real noise for good!
5. Call out harmful labeling of emotions when you encounter it happening around you.
Maybe it’s simply acknowledging when sadness or tears are called “weak” in a video your family’s watching. Or maybe it’s a more in-depth conversation with a peer at work or in your neighborhood. Showing up responsibly in your circles of influence is one of the most practical (and sustainable) ways to promote emotional wellness.
6. Set a goal in your household to build your emotional vocabulary together.
Words are powerful. By creating a culture of respect and openness in your home, you’re not only modeling these qualities for your partner and children… you’re elevating your own emotional intelligence in the process!
7. Follow up with someone you know who may be struggling. Offer some practical support.
Life is filled with challenges, and it’s always apparent when someone around us is having a hard time. Make a plan to check in periodically with the people in your life. It can make all the difference to someone who’s feeling stuck and alone.
8. Teach your kids to care for their own emotional wellness. (Adult kids, too!)
Repeat after us: Self-care isn’t selfish. In fact, it’s an essential part of promoting our own well-being and that of the people whose lives we touch everyday.
9. Learn the art of saying “No” and “I’m sorry”. Then start putting it into practice!
Sometimes less truly is more. When it comes to setting (and maintaining) boundaries, there’s no need to overcomplicate things. Practice clear, direct communication and it will get easier. (We promise).
10. Choose one new habit that’ll support your emotional wellness.
Want to keep the momentum going long after World Mental Health Day? Commit to building 1 new habit that’ll set you up for an emotionally well day, week, month, or year. Need some help getting started? We’d love to meet you!
Enjoy this post? You might also like:
3 Myths About Emotional Wellness
Your Emotional Wellness: 50+ Ways to Support It
Ready to take action to support your own emotional wellness?