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May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Let’s Talk, Heal, and Rise Up Together

Updated: Aug 22



Each May, we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month — a time dedicated to raising awareness, breaking stigma, and encouraging healing. Mental health impacts our thoughts, emotions, and actions daily. Unfortunately, many people suffer in silence.


At Rise Up Counseling & Consulting, we hold the belief that mental wellness is as vital as physical health. Therapy isn't just a resource for crises; it’s a powerful instrument for self-discovery, growth, and healing.



Why Mental Health Matters


Mental health challenges can manifest in numerous ways: anxiety, sadness, overwhelm, burnout, trauma, and difficulties with focus. If you’ve felt any of these, know you are not alone. 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences mental illness each year (NAMI, 2024). This represents millions of individuals quietly navigating tough emotions, often without support.


Taking care of your mental health is not just a luxury — it’s essential. It’s crucial to recognize that these challenges affect not only individuals but also families and communities as a whole. Mental health has a ripple effect on everyone around us.


The Link Between Mental and Physical Health


The connection between mental and physical health is undeniable. Poor mental health can lead to physical health issues and vice versa. Stress, anxiety, and depression can result in chronic illnesses.


Being proactive about mental health helps improve overall well-being. By addressing these issues early, we can prevent them from escalating into more serious problems.



Breaking the Stigma


In many communities, especially among Black and Brown communities, mental health is frequently misunderstood or minimized. There's a prevalent myth that therapy is only for those who are "broken" or "weak."


Let’s clarify: Seeking therapy is a courageous and empowered choice. Therapy provides a safe space for individuals to be heard, process emotions, and develop tools for thriving rather than merely surviving.


Understanding the Myths


Society often promotes misconceptions about therapy, deterring many from seeking the help they need. It's time to challenge these myths. Seeking therapy should be seen as an act of strength and self-care, not a sign of weakness or inadequacy.



What Therapy Can Do for You


At Rise Up Counseling & Consulting, we specialize in assisting individuals through various challenges, including:

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Trauma

  • Self-esteem and identity issues

  • Life transitions and burnout

  • Co-occurring substance use and mental health struggles


Our approach is compassionate, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based. Whether you're facing everyday stressors or deeper emotional wounds, we’re here to support you every step of the way.


Finding the Right Therapist


The journey towards healing doesn't start with just any therapist; it begins with the right fit. Take time to seek a therapist who understands your specific needs and resonates with your cultural and personal background.


The right therapist fosters an environment of trust, allowing for meaningful exploration and growth.



Real Talk: Therapy is for Everyone


Just like regular physical check-ups, therapy is essential for your mind and soul. You don't need to wait until everything collapses before seeking help. Therapy is for:

  • The overworked mom who feels like she is losing her identity

  • The entrepreneur juggling success and self-doubt

  • The woman recovering from past trauma while managing daily life

  • Anyone eager to break generational patterns and rise up


Each of these scenarios highlights the importance of prioritizing mental health. Remember, therapy is a resource available to all, regardless of your circumstances.



Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?


This Mental Health Awareness Month, we challenge you to prioritize your healing. Consider booking a session, joining a support group, conversing with a friend, journaling your feelings, and taking that vital first step.


Rise Up Counseling & Consulting offers virtual sessions in North Carolina and South Carolina, ensuring therapy is accessible from your own home. Let this month be the moment you choose yourself.


Embracing Your Healing Journey


Remember, the road to healing is unique for everyone. Embrace where you are and take one step at a time. Everyone deserves support along their journey.



Let’s Connect



Your mental health matters — every single day. Let Mental Health Awareness Month serve as a reminder that healing is possible, support is available, and you are never alone in your journey. Together, we can break barriers, embrace growth, and rise up as a community.



Helpful Resources


1. The CBT Workbook for Mental Health

📘 Recommended after “What Therapy Can Do for You”

Looking for strategies to manage stress, anxiety, or low mood? The CBT Workbook for Mental Health — with practical, evidence-based exercises to help you shift negative thinking patterns and build emotional resilience.



2. Trauma Recovery Journal

📝 Recommended after “Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?”

Prefer a private start? The Trauma Recovery Journal provides gentle guidance for self-reflection, helping you unpack emotions and build awareness at your own pace.



3. Self-Love Workbook for Women

💗 Suggested placement in the “Real Talk: Therapy is for Everyone” section

Struggling to reconnect with yourself? The Self-Love Workbook for Women includes affirmations, journal prompts, and empowering exercises to help you rebuild confidence and embrace yourself—flaws and all.



4. Mindfulness for Beginners (Book + Audio Guide)

🧘🏽‍♀️ Add under “Mental Health Matters” or as a sidebar section on the blog

Interested in feeling more grounded in daily life? Mindfulness for Beginners is perfect for newcomers to mindfulness, including a bonus audio guide.



5. Daily Gratitude Journal

🌞 Bonus tip at the end of the blog post

Small habits can create significant changes. The Daily Gratitude Journal helps you focus on positivity throughout your day, one reflection at a time.

(Affiliate link: I earn from qualifying purchases as an Amazon Associate.)


With compassion and purpose,

Shakeena Speller, DSW, LCSW, LCAS

Founder & Clinical Director

Rise Up Counseling & Consulting PLLC



 
 
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