May is Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time for individuals to come together and destigmatize mental illness through education, advocacy, and support. With the current social distancing measures and the added stress of the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, it is crucial for each of us to prioritize our own mental health while also supporting one another during these challenging times.

Anxiety is a physical manifestation of mental health issues. It is important to recognize this fact and understand that there are many more mental health conditions that couldn't be mentioned in this limited space. To foster a supportive conversation around mental health, it is essential to listen to firsthand experiences from individuals who have managed through these challenges or have received professional training to help others.

To show support for the wider TikTok community during this difficult time and to honor Mental Health Awareness Month, we invite anyone interested to share their stories, fight against the stigma, educate the community, and advocate for others by using the hashtag #MentalHealthAwareness.

Additionally, TikTok Creators will be taking over our Instagram account to share their personal stories of managing their own mental health and provide advice on topics related to self-care during challenging times. Here is the schedule:

Monday 5/4: @Nabela will discuss body positivity and self-love.
Tuesday 5/5: Medical professional @DrLeslie will cover the importance of mental health during isolation and quarantine.
Wednesday 5/6: @probablythis will provide tips on how we can better support each other while practicing self-care and self-love.
Thursday 5/7: @IAmTabithaBrown will discuss mental health for people of color.
Friday 5/8: @babyariel will share her experience managing her mental health while pursuing a career in social media.

Lastly, @gettingmindfulwithmegan emphasizes making decisions from a mindset of abundance, promoting mindfulness and self-growth. @emily.capshaw reminds us that the answer to our anxiety lies beneath our emotions, highlighting the importance of emotional health and mindfulness.