What is mental health awareness month and why is it important? 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and well-being, as well as reducing the stigma surrounding mental illness and supporting those affected by these conditions. Mental Health Awareness Month is important because it ensures that individuals who experience mental health challenges are cared for not only medically, but also emotionally.

When mental health problems are overlooked, they can lead to difficulties such as declining academic performance and strained relationships. At the end of the day, we are all human, and being aware of mental health issues is key to ensuring that everyone receives the support they need.

Awareness also helps us connect with and relate to others, which can aid in solving problems and ensuring that everyone maintains a healthy state of mind, free from serious challenges such as depression and anxiety. The more friends and support we have, the easier it is to overcome significant challenges—one of the main goals of Mental Health Awareness Month.

How You Can Take Action for Mental Health Awareness 

There are many things you can do to contribute to or help raise mental health awareness. There are four main ways you can spread awareness.  These contributions include using social media, creating marketing materials, promoting internal awareness, and organizing mental health events.

If those contributions are not what you are interested in and you want a simpler solution, then all you need to do is ask one simple question: “How are you doing?” This question not only lets you know how someone is feeling and what they are going through at the time, but it also lets the person know that others care for them and that they are not alone. It doesn’t matter who you ask, as long as it is used to help acknowledge both you and the person about what it is intended to convey. Remember, one simple question can change a person’s whole day and even their decisions.  

Floral Park Knights Spread Awareness

During the first week of May, students and staff at Floral Park Memorial participated in a series of events aimed at raising awareness about mental health. Throughout the week, the school community was encouraged to wear specific colors, each representing important themes related to Mental Health Awareness, including friendship, unity, acceptance, positivity, hope, joy, harmony, balance, resilience, and appreciation.

The week began on Monday with participants wearing pink to promote positive attitudes and kindness. On Tuesday, the color orange was chosen to symbolize success and joy. Wednesday’s theme centered around the color blue, with activities focused on calming exercises to foster harmony and unity. On Thursday, yellow was worn to represent friendship and camaraderie. The week concluded on Friday with the color green, symbolizing hope and the importance of maintaining a balance between mind and body.

Floral Park Memorial continues to demonstrate its commitment to promoting mental health awareness while also fostering a supportive and inclusive school environment.