Today, Thursday, May 20, is the first-ever Mental Health Action Day. We highlight this day as a time where we can assess our own mental health needs and find tools to take the right steps to assure we are supporting those needs.
Alongside the COVID-19 pandemic, a mental health crisis has emerged. Many were already facing mental health struggles that were pushed further by the limitations and harshness of the pandemic, while for others new challenges with mental health emerged.
Mental Health Action Day is all about supporting various mental health needs as a community and stressing the importance of the fact that one should never struggle alone.
Many mental health officials want to move past awareness at this point and delve into serious actionable steps to better our mental wellbeing. Experts say it's crucial to pay attention to our own mental health, as well as our friends and family.
On Mental Health Action Day’s website, awareness to action is explained, stating, “While more people than ever before are comfortable discussing mental health, many fall through the cracks in the space between awareness and action – particularly those who have been marginalized or underserved by existing institutions."
"That is why a coalition of nonprofits, brands, and influential leaders are coming together to launch the first-ever Mental Health Action Day that will drive our culture from awareness to action. This moment will provide the tangible tools that will help us all take an action for ourselves, for our loved ones, and for our community.”
The site offers access to peer support groups, tools to locate a therapist, research resources, support programs, tips to start a meditation or yoga practice, and more.
Powered by MTV Entertainment’s Mental Health is Health initiative, brands from across the spectrum have joined the Mental Health Action Day movement to ensure that mental health is at the forefront of our conversations, decisions, choices and to ensure we lead with kindness and compassion. Audacy is proud to be a partner on Mental Health Action Day.
Taking action to support our mental health won’t look the same for everyone. Every step we take towards understanding and satiating our needs related to mental health is powerful and will help save lives.
Audacy's I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-273-8255.