Mental Health Awareness Month: Let’s Care for Each Other
“I’m fine.” Sound familiar? Many of us say it, even when we’re not. In fact, a study commissioned by the Mental Health Foundation in the UK found that the average adult responds “I’m fine” 14 times a week but only 19% actually mean it.
Caring for our mental health is just as important as caring for our bodies and the two often go hand in hand. It’s not just about addressing challenges when they come up. It’s about noticing what we need in everyday moments.
A little more rest. A deep breath. A meaningful conversation with someone who truly listens. And sometimes, it’s about being there for others, even when they may not be ready to talk.
In the same study, 44% of 2,000 adults surveyed said they’d regretted asking someone how they were doing because they weren’t sure how to handle the answer. So how can we be more prepared?
Just like CPR, AED, or First Aid training prepares us to help in a physical health crisis, mental health courses offer practical tools to recognize signs of mental health or substance use challenges and respond with compassion and confidence.
Many of these trainings are designed for anyone who wants to learn more and make a difference, with no mental health background required. They’re tailored to a variety of settings, such as schools, workplaces, and communities, as well as different age groups and professions.
I recently took the version of the Mental Health First Aid course offered by the Veteran Spouse Network, created for members of the military community and those who love and support them. It was a valuable refresher, renewed my confidence, and reinforced that we don’t need to have all the answers to make a difference.
See what’s available near you or online. You might find a course that helps you feel more confident supporting the people you care about. It’s a simple step that can make a meaningful impact on the well-being of those around you.
This May, and every month, let’s care for ourselves and one another. Mental health matters. You’re not alone—and support is always within reach.