Look Around Look Within

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. There are many reasons people do not like to share their mental health struggles. Many are afraid due to stigma, shame and the fear of what others will say, think or do. In other words, their truth may be too much for those around them to handle. One of the positive outcomes of the Covid-19 pandemic is that it exposed the mental health challenges of those who were suffering in silence and those who suddenly found themselves experiencing fear, panic, and despair. Both needed relief from their pain and the mental health conversation became normalized and socially acceptable. The theme for this year is the subject of this article. We all can find help for what we are going through when we look around and look within.

When we look around, we can find solutions that help alleviate some of the symptoms related to mental health challenges. A few outside supports for mental health are outside. Getting fresh air, no matter what the season is, can be a great boost to one’s mental health. Walking, hiking, bike riding, skating and any activity done outside is beneficial for all your mental health needs. Other areas that can be a haven for good mental health is the atmosphere of the home. Making sure your home is peaceful and a refuge from the cares and confusion of the world can make a huge difference in whether you are anxious or depressed. Many people started gardens over the past few years, whether indoors or outside, gardening is a stress relieving pastime that gives people satisfaction and supports healthy living overall.

Looking inside is a call to take inventory of what is causing the inner challenges and get the treatment necessary to grow and stabilize. This is often easier said than done. Outward changes can bring instant results and can mask the inner issues that many of us struggle with, especially with the sociopolitical, environmental, and economic challenges in the world. We have found that our wellbeing is more important than anything. Our mental, physical, and spiritual health is key to our success and when you look around and look within, we begin the healing journey so many of us seek. Spread the word that inner and outside changes can take time but the outcome is worth the effort. Stay focused and keep trying new things until you find what works for you. Support others who are struggling and be open to your role in healing yourself and your community.

Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center