Spring has sprung, the sun is shining longer, the birds are chirping and flowers are blooming, which means May is in full effect!
Despite the beauty of the season, there have been shifts in the nation that are taking a toll on people’s mental health. Many people are stressed — from the war in Iran leading to rising prices and increasing political tensions across the nation.
However, experts and people such as the late and celebrated poet Maya Angelou encourage finding healthy ways to release emotions.
“I thought at the time that it was noble to bear the ills one had silently,” Angelou said, “but not so silently that others didn’t know one was bearing them.
As May is Mental Health Awareness Month, this special edition highlights the importance of overall psychological wellness.
Throughout this edition, learn how community leaders prioritize mental well-being, check out programs providing resources to promote soundness of mind, and tap into the organizations working to uplift people of all ages through outlets that boost emotional health.
Further, May also marks Older Americans Month, celebrating the contributions of elders, while also cultivating conversations about the challenges they face. Readers will learn ways to help older residents, provide tips to prevent elderly isolation, and ensure they are treated with dignity.
Finally, this special edition is full of information to use beyond May and to reference regularly, in order to combat stress and promote mental wellness.
In highlighting emotional well-being, this edition also offers hope.
“I do hope that people can relate and understand it’s OK to not be OK, and it’s OK to talk about it,” tennis player Naomi Osaka told Time in 2021. “There are people who can help, and there is usually light at the end of any tunnel.”
