Benefits of Public Figures Talking About Mental Health Issues

While it’s nothing new for celebrities, athletes, and influencers to talk about deeply personal details of their lives, there has certainly been more open discussion in recent years by public figures of their mental health challenges. It’s not uncommon for mental health issues to be headline news. Recent examples include gymnast Simone Biles withdrawing from Olympic competition to focus on her mental health, Prince Harry discussing his struggles with anxiety, or the suicide of country singer Naomi Judd. In an …

Read more

October Mental Health Awareness Events

The month of October may be best known for Halloween, but there are also several great mental health awareness events during the month that you should know about. Here’s a quick rundown of these October awareness events, with links so you can learn more and get involved. Mental Illness Awareness Week Established by the US Congress in recognition of efforts by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), this event occurs every year during the first full week of October. …

Read more

11 Public Figures Who Are Changing the Conversation About Mental Illness

Talking openly about having a mental illness is still very difficult. Coming forward takes courage as the stigma and discrimination surrounding these conditions remains widespread. When a high-profile public figure or celebrity speaks up about their mental health struggles and encourages mental health treatment, it can raise awareness on a wider scale and send the message that it’s okay to ask for help. There are a growing number of well-known individuals who have become outspoken advocates to promote mental health …

Read more

Taking Care of Your Mental Health During the Pandemic: 10 Great Resources

I’ve run across a lot of great information for coping with mental health concerns during the pandemic, so here’s a quick round-up of 10 of the best online resources. Lots of great information here! 1. APA COVID-19 Information and Resources – American Psychological Association (APA) 2. Taking Care of Your Behavioral Health – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 3. Coronavirus: Resources for Managing Stress – National Center for PTSD 4. COVID-19 Resource Center – National Association of …

Read more

How to Cope with Mental Health Concerns Related to the COVID-19 Crisis

The global COVID-19 pandemic has impacted each of us in ways we never imagined. Although the heart of the crisis is a virus which can sicken or even kill us, perhaps one of the longer-term outcomes of the pandemic will be how it continues to impact our collective mental health. The pandemic has negatively affected our mental health on multiple levels: Social isolation. Anxiety, worry and fear of exposure to an unseen threat. Economic insecurity and loss of jobs and …

Read more

Mental and Physical Health Benefits of Volunteering

It’s probably a safe bet that most of us have volunteered our time, talents, sweat, or ideas at least a few times to support a person, group, or cause. Volunteerism seems ingrained in our culture. We frequently help out with school or church activities, or with various community groups to support their many worthwhile efforts. Although volunteering can require a lot of time and energy, I’ve usually found it enjoyable because I’ve had the satisfaction of working with others toward …

Read more

How Workplaces Can Support People in Recovery

One of the many challenges faced by people who struggle with mental illness or addiction is that these conditions often interfere with their ability to sustain a job. Symptoms can often be impairing or even disabling, forcing the person to quit work. Many times, it is only after the person engages in treatment and begins on the road to recovery that they can re-enter the workforce. Another roadblock to employment is that lingering symptoms can affect energy, mood, stamina, and …

Read more

Helpful Mental Health Resources for College Students

As a former college professor, I’m quite aware that the stresses that college students face are very real. These challenges include being away from the support of family, academic pressure, limited money, lack of sleep and rest, frequent exposure to alcohol and drugs, and striving for independence as young adults. Recent data show that as many as 36% of US college students in 2017 had been diagnosed at some point with a mental health condition. This reflects a sizeable increase …

Read more