World Mental Health Day: #faceofmentalillness

Mental health is important. It is pivotal. People are often focused on their own health but unfortunately our mental health isn’t always prioritized. Today, on World Mental Health Day we urge you to take care of YOU, to check in on the people you love and to focus on your mental health. So how do we do that?

Self care is key! Remember, while you are taking care of everyone else, that you must also take care of yourself. Self care looks different for everyone so what ever makes you feel good, do that. Whatever makes you feel your best, whatever helps you maintain in an often overwhelming world, do that. Use your tools.

Check in on the people you care about. Ask them how they are doing, if they are ok, if they need help. People aren’t always forthcoming about their situations, so don’t hesitate to ask again.

Those of us who live with mental health diagnoses are so much more than a diagnosis. We are people, family members, teachers, authors, mothers, fathers, siblings, advocates, we are so many things.

So what does mental illness look like? Well, you might be surprised. Remember that mental health does not discriminate and it DOES impact us all. You may have a diagnosis or you may love someone or know someone with one. We are all in this together. Ending the stigma, begins with us. Sharing our stories and experiences matter.

Back in 2016 we launched the #faceofmentalillness campaign and we were inspired by the submissions. On World Mental Health day would you join our movement!? Tag us on social media, use #faceofmentalillness and post a couple of pictures showing who you REALLY are. Know that you are not alone and that you are supported. We will share and repost. Together we can erase the stigma. Happy World Mental Health Day.

Love, The TIMB Team.