Help end mental health stigma for myself
Taking care of myself
Caring for your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and it must come first before you can care for the people you love.
Asking for help and support is a sign of strength
If you have concerns about your mental health or symptoms you are experiencing, talking openly about it and asking for help and support are signs of strength. Opening up can be hard and uncomfortable, especially when you’re unsure of how people will respond or if it will be met with silence.
But here’s a little secret. You might be surprised by how many people will support you and respond with a listening ear and kindness.
Start the conversation
Tips on what to say to help get the conversation started:
- “I’ve been feeling a bit down lately, and I wanted to talk to someone about it. Do you have a moment?”
- “I’ve been feeling really anxious for a while now, and I thought it might help to talk about it. Can we chat?”
- “I’ve had a lot on my mind lately, and I trust you enough to share. Do you have time to talk?”
- “I’m working on taking better care of my mental health, and part of that is opening up to people I trust. Can we talk?”
- “I’m going through a tough time, and talking about it might help me feel better. Do you have a minute?”
Making your mental health a priority
Opening up about your mental health or illness is a brave step toward breaking the silence and getting the support and care you deserve. Taking time to care for yourself is also an important step.
Press the pause button — and fill your cup first
You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking time for self-care by pausing to be present in the moment, connecting with others or moving your body — all these help you calm your mind and thrive. Self-care fills your cup so you have more to give to those you love.
Put yourself first on your list
Prioritizing your mental health by taking time to care for yourself helps build your resilience and equips you to handle life’s challenges and thrive. Tips to put yourself first:
- Speak kindly to yourself. It matters.
- Ask for help and support. We all can use a helping hand. That’s what friends and family are for. Practice talking with Interactive Experiences.
- Make It OK to say no. Setting boundaries by saying no to some things can help keep your mental health in check.
- Do the things that bring you joy. Each day find time for hobbies or activities that make you feel good. Go for a walk, spend time in nature, draw, dance, read, hang out with pets or learn something new.
- Connect with others. Surround yourself with people who make you feel good, safe and supported. Connection gives you a sense of belonging, community and mental well-being. Find connection through stories of hope and strength.
- Press pause. It’s OK to slow down. Take time to just be in the present. It can help you refocus and calm the mind.
- Recharge with restful sleep. It’s one of the most productive things you can do for your mental health. It recharges your brain, giving your mood, energy and focus a boost.
Find more tips for talking and resources for support
Explore lived experiences
Need Help Now?
Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org
Help is available 24/7.
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, please seek help immediately.