May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Each May we observe Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a time to remind ourselves that we have no idea what another person is carrying, be it mental health issues, grief and loss, or some other life-changing stressor. Remembering this helps us to show compassion and kindness to one another.

As we often say at the Brian Dagle Foundation, “there is always hope,” and that is just as true this month. It is okay not to be okay. It is okay to ask for help. It is okay to need help!

SAMSHA (the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration) recently wrote an article entitled “Every Mental Health Journey Begins with Being Seen.” I hope you will take a few minutes to read it. They remind us “The way we respond to someone who is struggling can either reinforce stigma or support recovery. A simple act—checking in, listening without judgment, or helping someone connect to care—can make a meaningful difference.”

You can make a difference this Mental Health Awareness Month! Check in on someone, even if it is a quick note that says “thinking of you.” Listen without judgement, remembering that we can’t always understand another’s experience but we can be present to it. And if someone asks for help, you can connect them with someone who can provide the care they need.

Thank you for being part of making hope real in the world,
Ann Dagle & the Brian Dagle Foundation Family

Know someone who is struggling and not sure what to do? Call or text 988 for help any time.