Five Tips to Make the Most of Mental Health Awareness Month

The month of May has significance in our community for different reasons. May is a sign of hope and new growth; however, it also marks the three-year anniversary of a traumatic event that occurred in our community, the shooting at the former Radisson Hotel & Convention Center. It’s normal to feel conflicting emotions and even anxiety when anniversaries of traumatic events approach. And it’s often difficult to sit with conflicting emotions, particularly when you have a direct connection to a traumatic event.

This month, which also happens to be National Mental Health Awareness Month, the team at Oneida Behavioral Health wants to help community members find ways to move forward while honoring the past. Following are five ideas you can use to nurture your mental health this month, and every month that follows.

• Connect with friends and family – This month, make a date with a friend or family member to get together and touch base. Spending time with people who care for you and understand or share your experiences can provide a welcome, safe space to rest and renew.
• Do something you love – Schedule some time to do something you love. Getting lost for a short time in a favorite activity or hobby can help restore optimism and enhance your sense of comfort and wellbeing.
• Take a break – Sometimes, a change of scenery or just a few minutes away from your everyday routine can help improve your mood and clear your heart and mind. If you feel like you need to hit reset, go for a brief walk or take a few minutes for yourself.
• Keep active and connect with nature – Physical activity can help offset the effects of chronic stress and can help you concentrate, sleep and feel better. Taking your exercise outdoors can provide an even further boost, with natural light, fresh air and the sounds and smells of nature around you.
• Talk about it – If your feelings become overwhelming or are impacting your everyday life, it’s time to reach out for help. Providers at Oneida Behavioral Health can help you process your emotions and refocus on your own renewal and wellbeing. We even offer a weekly Wellness Support Group that you can engage with every weekday. Learn more here. Or call (920) 490-3790 to start the conversation.

Learn more about Oneida Behavioral Health at https://oneida-nsn.gov/resources/health/behavioral-health/.  And, like and follow the Oneida Comprehensive Health Division Facebook page for behavioral health tips, events, stories, resources and more.

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