May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Caring for the Whole You
By Claudia Flores, LCSW
Each May, we pause to shine a brighter light on something deeply personal yet often overlooked: our mental health. At Radiant Futures, we believe that mental wellness is just as important as physical health. Nurturing our mental health helps us build stronger relationships, deeper connections, and more resilient communities.
Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize that mental health touches all of us. Whether we are volunteers supporting survivors, donors investing in healing, or community members navigating life’s many roles, each of us carries emotions, experiences, and stories that deserve care and attention. Mental health is about how we think, feel, connect, and cope day to day.
By tending to our mental well-being, we not only strengthen our foundation but we also show up morefully for others. This month reminds us that taking care of our inner world is essential for sustaining the hope and healing we strive to foster together.
Just as we maintain our physical health with nutritious food and regular movement, our mental health requires intentional care. Thankfully, there are many small, everyday practices that can support emotional wellness and build resilience.
Try a Mental Health Check-In
Take a moment to pause and reflect. Here’s a simple way to check in with yourself. We invite you to answer the following questions, which focus on your mind, body, heart, and connection. Regular check-ins like this can help raise awareness about what you need and how to care for yourself.
- Mind:
What thoughts are taking up most of your mental space? Are they helpful, kind, or critical?
Practicing mindfulness is an effective way to care for your mental health. Taking just a few minutes daily to focus on your breath or do grounding exercises can help calm your nervous system and reduce anxiety. - Body:
How does your body feel right now—tense, rested, energetic?
Physical activity is a powerful mood booster. Whether it’s stretching in the morning, dancing to your favorite song, or walking around the block, movement helps release stress and improves mental clarity. Just as important is rest. Sleep plays a vital role in emotional regulation. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you unwind. - Heart:
What emotions are coming up today? Is there anything you’ve been pushing down or avoiding?
Emotional intelligence is key to supporting our mental health. Being aware of our feelings allows us to respond wisely and make choices that promote well-being. - Connection:
When was the last time you felt deeply connected to someone or something? Who could you reach out to this week to feel connected?
Meaningful relationships are one of the most powerful tools for maintaining mental wellness. Make time to text a friend, share a meal, or volunteer with others. Don’t be afraid to seek support, talk with a therapist, join a group, or connect with a friend.
This May, we invite you to check in with yourself and, most importantly, remember that mental health is not a destination, it’s a lifelong journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone.
At Radiant Futures, we encourage a holistic approach to mental health. That means attending to all parts of ourselves. When we make space for our full humanity, we empower ourselves and others to live more fully with compassion and resilience.
Thank you for being part of our community. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please call the 24/7 Helpline at (877) 531-5522.