May is Mental Health Awareness Month and this year, we’re thinking big. Mental health challenges impact us all and there is so much work to be done to ensure every person has a chance to truly thrive. As we advocate for mental health awareness and support in Tampa Bay, we invite both organizations and individuals to join the fight and make a difference. Ready to make an impact but not sure how to start?
For Your Organization:
For organizations, the time to prioritize mental health is now. From years of our own work, we know that organizations hold a lot of power and potential for change, both within themselves and for the communities they serve.
On the internal side, implement policies and practices that support employees’ or volunteers’ mental well-being, such as flexible schedules, access to mental health resources, and training on mental health awareness and stigma reduction. You can also model leading with empathy to empower others to speak up about their needs and challenges.
Externally, leverage trusted resources like Mental Health America’s toolkit (You can find a version for Schools and Organizations here. You can find a version for businesses and employers here.) as guides towards creating meaningful impact. Consider partnering with local mental health organizations (We might know someone!) to provide your community with education, services, and opportunities to get involved. By creating a supportive environment both internally and in the ecosystem you operate in, organizations can help communities thrive.
For You:
Want to create change on your own? You can still play a crucial role in advancing mental health awareness and support in your community. Here’s how:
- Educate Yourself: Learn about the state of mental health by exploring resources like The State of Mental Health in America report, or keep your focus local with our latest research on mental health in Tampa Bay. Knowledge empowers us to speak up and speak out about mental health and the future we want to see for our community.
- Break the Stigma: Challenge misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding mental health. Use respectful language, listen without judgment, and advocate for mental health parity in healthcare and insurance coverage. If you feel called to share your own mental health journey, our If You Know You Know campaign amplifies the stories of real Tampa Bay community members to normalize seeking support. We’d be honored to share your story.
- Support Mental Health Initiatives: Volunteer your time or donate to organizations working to improve mental health services, promote awareness, and reduce stigma. Every contribution, whether it’s of time, money, or resources makes a huge impact.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Burnout is real and you can’t care for others if you’re not taking care of yourself. Create a toolbox of activities that support your mental health like exercise, mindfulness, and seeking support when needed. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish, it models positive behaviors for those around you and normalizes taking care of yourself…everybody wins!
We can only create change if we all do our part to shift the norms and stigmas surrounding mental healthcare. Together, we can create positive change and support mental health for all. Join us in raising awareness, breaking down barriers, and advocating for a more compassionate and inclusive society.
This May, let’s ignite change together with our #IYKYK campaign. Share your story or spread the word on social media using #IYKYK and tag @tampabaythrives. Let’s unite our voices, break barriers, and inspire others to join the movement for mental health awareness and support.
Thank you for being part of our mission to make Tampa Bay a healthier and more resilient community for everyone.
