Mental health awareness
May 18 marked the start of Mental Health Awareness Week.
The theme of the awareness campaign changes every year. This year’s theme is “Kindness” — not only to others but also to one’s self.
This year, due to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease and consequent quarantine and lockdowns, maintaining mental health has become as important as maintaining physical health.
People shared their thoughts, experiences and encouraged others to reach out for help via the hashtag #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek trending worldwide.
@OfficialWithHES tweeted: “#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek Sending love to everyone who feels a bit down and alone. We don’t know what people go through each day so don’t forget to spread a little bit of kindness. You’re not alone in this.” UK Leader of the Opposition Keir Starmer @ Keir_Starmer tweeted: “This year’s #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek feels even more poignant than usual. Talking to others about how we’re feeling and sharing our own experiences, especially when we can’t meet, is more important than ever.”
@Sophylady1 tweeted: “So is #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek it’s not just a hashtag. We all have mental health like we do our physical health. We will dip & rise throughout our lives with it. This para is immense from ‘Reasons To Stay Alive’ #BeKind to others but be kind to yourselves too.”
@MonifiethT tweeted: “#MentalHealthAwarenessWeek There is nothing more important than your health. Take care of yourself. Give yourself time and space. Don’t be hard on yourself.” @VexKing tweeted: “If someone keeps distance from you, don’t just assume that they’re not there for you, check in on them. They might be at a real bad place in their life, and that’s why they might be isolating themselves. Don’t always assume the worst.” @JojJojJoelle tweeted:
“14 years ago, I spent 8 days in ICU after a suicide attempt. Suffering with PTSD and depression, I lost sight of hope. I wish that in that moment, I could have seen all the beautiful moments that I’ve had since. Hold onto hope; life does get better.”