Motivation 2020: Mental Health Awareness Month & Memorial Day
“Memorial Day this year is especially important as we are reminded almost daily of the great sacrifices that the men and women of the Armed Services make to defend our way of life.” Robin Hayes
Motivation 2020: Mental Health Awareness Month & Memorial Day
Motivation 2020: Mental Health Awareness Month & Memorial Day
I have long believed that sacrifice is the pinnacle of patriotism. Bob Riley
Memorial Day isn’t just about honoring veterans, it’s honoring those who lost their lives. Veterans had the fortune of coming home. For us, that’s a reminder of when we come home we still have a responsibility to serve. It’s a continuation of service that honors our country and those who fell defending it. Pete Hegseth
A man’s country is not a certain area of land, of mountains, rivers, and woods, but it is a principle, and patriotism is loyalty to that principle. George William Curtis
On Memorial Day, I don’t want to only remember the combatants. There were also those who came out of the trenches as writers and poets, who started preaching peace, men, and women who have made this world a kinder place to live. Eric Burdon
Memorial Day & Mental Health Awareness Month: As we gather to celebrate Memorial Day on Monday, let us not forget that May is also Mental Health Awareness Month. This is very important to remember because even though Memorial Day honors members of our armed forces who died, many of our surviving Veterans came home and continue to come home with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and other mental health issues. Some remain paralyzed and/or damaged by the memories and impact of being in a war zone. Many who died, also left behind family and friends who struggle with mental health issues so the impact is universal. The global impact of the coronavirus pandemic has taken a toll on our collective mental health. Many are struggling. Depression, Insomnia, drug addiction, and suicides are up. How do we cope? How can we help? Throughout this post, we will offer tips and resources for those in need. Each year, the Mental Health America (MHA) organization chooses a theme to help us focus on issues that affect us all in the mental health arena. This year, they appropriately return to last year’s theme #4Mind4Body – “The #Tools2Thrive theme was chosen in “a time of unprecedented anxiety about a world pandemic, Mental Health America (MHA) today announced the start of its 2020 May is Mental Health Month campaign, with an emphasis on delivering “Tools 2 Thrive” to address the mental health needs of everyone” Wikipedia
Memorial Day: What do we know about it? On Memorial Day – we honor the brave men and women who served this great country and paid the ultimate price by giving their lives so we can live free. We honor and remember those who returned as survivors, witnesses, patriots, scarred. We honor all our servicemen/women around the world. Originally called Decoration Day, this special holiday began in response to the great loss of life during the American Civil War which, at its conclusion in 1865, had claimed the lives of over 620,000 men. In the early days, women would place flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers. By 1868, Major General John A. Logan designated it as an official day of remembrance. In 1971, it became a federal holiday. In case you don’t know this, Memorial Day honors American servicemen/women who lost their lives at war while Veterans Day honors all who served; alive and otherwise.
On Memorial Day, we pause to honor and remember all the brave souls who paid the ultimate sacrifice – they gave up their lives so the rest of us can enjoy all the freedoms and advantages that come with living under a system that upholds the democratic process. Each casualty of war or MIA leaves behind loved ones, family members, and memories of what could have been… Their loved ones hold on to the hope that their death was pain-free, not in vain, or that the MIA status will one day change. It rarely does. Each Memorial Day becomes a harbinger of reminders of loved ones lost to wars. Of interest, the Tomb of the Unknown soldier now remains empty as recent DNA testing was able to resolve the mystery of bones buried there. They belonged to an air force pilot by the name of Lt Michael Joseph Blassie. He has since been reburied in his hometown.
READ: Motivation Mondays: Remember & Honor #MemorialDay
Insomnia in a pandemic
Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day
Motivation Mondays: Honoring Memorial Day
In Flanders Fields By John McCrae – 1872-1918
In Flanders Fields, the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.via poets.org
Decoration Day By Henry Wordsworth Longfellow
Sleep, comrades, sleep and rest
On this Field of the Grounded Arms,
Where foes no more molest,
Nor sentry’s shot alarms!
Ye have slept on the ground before,
And started to your feet
At the cannon’s sudden roar,
Or the drum’s redoubling beat.
But in this camp of Death
No sound your slumber breaks;
Here is no fevered breath,
No wound that bleeds and aches.
All is repose and peace,
Untrampled lies the sod;
The shouts of battle cease,
It is the Truce of God!
Rest, comrades, rest, and sleep!
The thoughts of men shall be
As sentinels to keep
Your rest from danger free.
Your silent tents of green
We deck with fragrant flowers;
Yours has the suffering been,
The memory shall be ours. via hwlongfellow.org
“The problem with the stigma around mental health is really about the stories that we tell ourselves as a society. What is normal? That’s just a story that we tell ourselves.” Matthew Quick
Motivation 2020: Mental Health Awareness Month & Memorial Day
Motivation 2020: Mental Health Awareness Month & Memorial Day
What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation. Glenn Close
Mental health is often missing from public health debates even though it’s critical to well-being. Diane Abbott
Self-esteem is as important to our well-being as legs are to a table. It is essential for physical and mental health and happiness. Louise Hart
The probability that we may fail in the struggle ought not to deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just! Abraham Lincoln
Some of the most comforting words in the universe are ‘me too.’ That moment when you find out that your struggle is also someone else’s struggle, that you’re not alone, and that others have been down the same road. Unknown
Mental Health Awareness: What do we know? Did you know that over 300 million people suffer from depression globally? And that it is the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year olds? If you look around you or think about it carefully, you or someone you know has had a bout of depression over the years. Some are even diagnosed as clinically depressed and the treatment is long term. Given the current Covid19 pandemic, we can only imagine how much higher that number is going to be by the end of this year. The truth is that we are all the faces of mental illness which includes depression. It looks like YOU, ME, and EVERYONE out there and there is help. Of course, the sad part is that, quite often, we hide behind the stigma that is attached to this and every other form of mental illness when we should not. You did nothing wrong and it is NOT your fault. Like every other illness of the mind and body, we need support, information, and intervention.
How do we Cope with Mental Health Issues During this Pandemic? One sad side effect of the current Covid19 pandemic is the level of stress, depression, and sleeplessness it has created in a lot of people. There is an underlying current of anxiety that is showing up as disrupted sleep patterns. I’ve had my share of it and have to constantly remind myself that using calming tools, prayer, yoga, and meditation, long walks, and a couple of short naps during the day help me handle it. On Sunday, my pastor, Pastor Buddy of Northway Church, reminded us that being and staying present and enjoying the life we have now is important. Restful sleep is part of that equation. Even as we sort out our unemployment insurance issues, health matters, personal goals, and other demands, we must make room for rest/sleep/relaxation. It is imperative if we want to maintain optimum health and not fall ill or become depressed.
Yes, these are challenging times but we can find ways to help us keep stepping one foot in front of the other. I take a zoom restorative yoga class 3-4 days, walk 4-6 miles every day, dance, and take short naps throughout the day. I attend quite a few prayer groups/meditation events online and listen to uplifting music. Do I need more sleep? Probably and I am taking steps to help myself rest more. Pastor Buddy suggested 10 helpful tips to Get Good Sleep:- 1. Stick to a strict sleep schedule. 2. Practice a relaxing bedtime ritual. 3. Avoid naps 
4. Adjust temperature. 5. Avoid alcohol and heavy meals. 6. Dim all lights 7. Only sleep in your bed not the living room sofa. 8. Make gradual adjustments. 9. Sleep on a good mattress. 10. Avoid all caffeine. Where are you struggling with on this list? I need fewer naps and more sleep.
Who do we reach for support? If according to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness, we can offer pockets of hope by encouraging people to share information on resources available to our surviving servicemen/women and their loved ones. Support the efforts of those who are thriving and those who are struggling. Hope keeps survivors fighting to stay alive and comes in many forms; through grace, the kindness of people and opportunities to heal. Hope comes in the form of Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors, TAPS, which was created in 1994 by Bonnie Carroll after the tragic death of her husband, Brig. Gen Tom Carroll, in a plane crash. TAPS offers a variety of resources to the loved ones/family of military staff. They provide comprehensive care including services and programs such as peer-based emotional support, casework assistance, crisis intervention, and grief and trauma resources. They give help, hope, and healing to families who have lost a loved one/family member. Their toll-free hotline is 1-800-509-TAPS (8277).
How can we be of help? For those battling depression, post-traumatic stress disorders, and/or feeling suicidal, both Hopeline and AFSP – American Foundation for Suicide Prevention provide great resources and immediate help to veterans and their families. Hopeline was started in 1998 by Reese Butler after the death of his wife, Kristin, by suicide. His goal has remained “to offer HOPE and the option to LIVE to those in the deepest emotional pain.” AFSP has been involved in several suicide prevention initiatives and provides groundbreaking research, educational campaigns, innovative demonstration projects, and important policy work. It advocates for policies and legislation at all levels of government bringing awareness and change to the subject of suicide prevention. The toll-free number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (8255) OR Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741-741.
READ: Motivation Mondays: World Health Day – Depression #LetsTalk
WHO: Handout on Depression
What I Know for Sure About Mental Illness By Oprah Winfrey
Motivation Mondays: Rejuvenation
Resilience practice By Alex Elle
look yourself in the eye
when you feel the most hurt, the most ashamed
and unworthy.
when you are barely
able to stand up
straight because the
pain runs deeper
than you are willing
to go.
and love yourself
entirely anyway.
Little Stones at My Window By Mario Benedetti
for roberto and adelaida
Once in a while
joy throws little stones at my window
it wants to let me know that it’s waiting for me
but today I’m calm
I’d almost say even-tempered
I’m going to keep anxiety locked up
and then lie flat on my back
which is an elegant and comfortable position
for receiving and believing news
who knows where I’ll be next
or when my story will be taken into account
who knows what advice I still might come up with
and what easy way out I’ll take not to follow it
don’t worry, I won’t gamble with an eviction
I won’t tattoo remembering with forgetting
there are many things left to say and suppress
and many grapes left to fill our mouths
don’t worry, I’m convinced
joy doesn’t need to throw any more little stones
I’m coming
I’m coming. via poets.org
The details for Motivation Mondays are below. Join in! The themes for APR – MAY 2020 are:
04/01 – 01 April Fool’s Day, Autism Awareness Month
04/05 – 05 Palm Sunday, 06 Int’l. Day of Sport for Devel. & Peace, 09 Holy Thursday/ Start of Passover, 10 Good Friday
04/12 – 12 Easter Sunday, 15 Jackie Robinson Day, 16 Passover (End), Nat’l. High Five Day, 17 Nat’l. Haiku Poetry Day
04/19 – 19 Bicycle Day, 21 Holocaust Remembrance of Slavery, 22 Earth Day, 24 Start of Ramadan/Arbor Day, 25 DNA Day/ World Malaria Day
04/26 – 26 World Intellectual Property Day, 28 World Day for Safety and Health at Work, 29 Duke Ellington Day/Int’l. Dance Day
MAY
05/01 – 01 May Day, May is Mental Health Awareness Month
05/03 – 03 World Laughter Day/ Press Freedom Day, 05 Cinco De Mayo/ National Teacher Day/World Asthma Day, 06 National Nurses Day, 07 National Day of Prayer
05/10 – 10 Mother’s Day (US), 15 International Day of Families, 16 Armed Forces Day/International Day of Light
05/17 – 17 World Telecommunication and Information Day, 20 World Bee Day, 21 World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, 23 Eid al Fitr Starts/Ramadan Ends/International Day to End Obstetric Fistula/World Turtle Day
05/24 – 24 National Brother Day, 25 Memorial Day, 28 Shavuot Starts, 29 International Day of UN Peacekeepers, 30 World MS Day/Shavuot ends, 31 World NO Tobacco Day
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“If we start being honest about our pain, our anger, and our shortcomings instead of pretending they don’t exist, then maybe we’ll leave the world a better place than we found it.” Russell Wilson
Motivation 2020: Mental Health Awareness Month & Memorial Day
Motivation 2020: Mental Health Awareness Month & Memorial Day
Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going. Noam Shpancer, PhD
Just because you don’t understand it doesn’t mean it isn’t so. Lemony Snicket, The Blank Book
Don’t give in to stigma. A diagnosis does not determine who you are or what you can do! Unknown
As America celebrates Memorial Day, we pay tribute to those who have given their lives in our nation’s wars. John M. McHugh
I love America more than any other country in this world, and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpetually. James Baldwin
137 years later, Memorial Day remains one of America’s most cherished patriotic observances. The spirit of this day has not changed – it remains a day to honor those who died defending our freedom and democracy. Doc Hastings
MEMORIAL DAY & MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS: According to the CDC, mental illness can be described as “collectively all diagnosable mental disorders” or “health conditions that are characterized by alterations in thinking, mood, or behavior (or some combination thereof) associated with distress and/or impaired functioning.”2 Depression is the most common type of mental illness, affecting more than 26% of the U.S. adult population.3…” During this global pandemic, the CDC is recommending five things we can do and the overall message is to Be Kind to Your Mind – Tips to cope with stress during COVID-19 1. PAUSE. Breathe. Notice how you feel 2. TAKE BREAKS from COVID-19 content. 3. MAKE Time to sleep and exercise. 4. REACH OUT and stay connected. 5. SEEK HELP if overwhelmed or unsafe. On any given day, we, our friends, and any of our loved ones are at risk of facing an emotional, psychological or social stressor that could impact our mental health, our overall feeling of well-being, and push us to the brink. How those around us handle the episode can make a difference between life and death.
The Suicide Prevention Resource Center (SPRC) complements the work of the AFSP by providing prevention support, training, and resources to help organizations and individuals develop their own suicide prevention programs. The goal is to develop and evaluate centers and programs to advance the National Strategy for Suicide Prevention (NSSP). Another terrific group offering hope is Humanity Healing International, a non-profit which creates projects for change, healing, and the pursuit of peace by encouraging active participation to grow local communities and restore personal dignity to people globally. As you celebrate Memorial Day, please keep in mind all those in need of comfort and share this information with all. Thank you! Let us never forget that we are all in this together.
READ: Motivation Mondays: Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
Motivation Mondays: Self-Care
Motivation Mondays: Grow & Blossom
20 Powerful Quotes About Mental Health
Rejuvenation by Russell Sivey
Talking of being in a deep sorrow
Masked for a time beyond
I hide, under my shell of invisibility
I sulk, for I am lower still
Than I was, to begin with
But then something triggers
My thoughts explode with all kinds
Of special feelings of heavenly
Love brought to me by so many
Of my friends, and my family
All of whom I cherish
Without which I would certainly
Drown in my own darkest nights
Of emptiness…
But I only see light-filled love
Beaming all around me
Lifting me higher each day
Making my pain go away
So I may make it again this way
And love all today Via poetrysoup.com
Shiloh: A Requiem By Herman Melville – 1819-1891
Skimming lightly, wheeling still,
The swallows fly low
Over the field in clouded days,
The forest-field of Shiloh—
Over the field where April rain
Solaced the parched ones stretched in pain
through the pause of night
That followed the Sunday fight
Around the church of Shiloh—
The church so lone, the log-built one,
That echoed to many a parting groan
And natural prayer
Of dying foemen mingled there—
Foemen at morn, but friends at eve—
Fame or country least their care:
(What like a bullet can undeceive!)
But now they lie low,
While over them the swallows skim,
And all is hushed at Shiloh. via poets.org
Any Zen Antics stories via 
Positive Motivation Tip: Let us remember to honor Memorial Day and Mental Health Awareness Month as our minds, bodies, and memories deserve focused attention.
Motivation Mondays: Our series is open to anyone who wishes to share a motivational quote, photo, personal challenge, or a post that encourages others to start the week on an upbeat note.
Basic Instructions: Each week, I will have a motivation word to help us create a response. (See listed words for the months above/below)
Email address: You may email or share your post as a comment and I will add it to the round-up of related posts. email it to: contact(@)mirthandmotivation(.)com
Category tag: – Share your post using Motivation Mondays
Twitter hashtag: – Use this on Twitter #MotvnM
Dedicated Page: There is a dedicated page for Motivation Mondays. It has the same instructions and will include other helpful tools and a link to the round-up
Facebook Page: MotivationOnMondays Join our page and add your post and/or any motivational piece you think will be helpful to others.
Facebook Community: We have a Facebook community forum to compliment the page. It serves as another way to share uplifting posts and thoughts. Please join in and add your voice.
Badge: – I created a fun badge using PicMonkey’s free photo editing tools. You can create your own, use WordPress’ integrated tool on your blog or you are welcome to use mine. (see dedicated page)
Tag: – Motivation Mondays
Hashtag: – #MotvnM
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PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS: All Photos – Memorial Day, Mental Health via Pixabay, AND/OR Memorial Day WIKIPEDIA
Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet
Trackbacks
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this is an important topic and so good that you help to increase awareness!
I am glad that you posted about this. I have PTSD from childhood abuse, and my husband has PTSD from the Gulf War. Mental health is thankfully getting a lot less stigmatized – not enough yet, but it is getting there. But I do know that this pandemic is especially challenging for some people who are suffering in silence. Happy Memorial Day, and many blessings!
Thank you, Sis, for sharing honestly. There are so many suffering that we need to not ignore them and address effective measures for aid.
Mental health is a serious issue that should never be look down upon. So many misconceptions out there. I know that because I know someone with a mental health problem and lot’s of people seem to judge him for it. On another note, I thought your article was inspiring.
Thank you for bringing up the stigma and abuse. We all need to pay attention to the many ways lives are damaged and not be silent.
Yes indeed
I am glad to know that you have this day of celebration for your fallen heroes. While we have this kind of celebration, this is not grand as it is in your country.
Do you one in your country? It is a worthy honor.
beautiful post as always. i really like how you reminded the readers the difference between memorial day and veterans day.
You’re very correct, they worked selflessly to make sure we are save, we can sleep and wake to see our families in peace without any fear. We say thank you to all Veterans and their families for all they do.
I think one day is not enough to honor the memory of our fallen soldiers. Those who were fortunate enough to return home can only tell stories that would really make you be very thankful that you are alive today and enjoying the freedom you have. Let this be every day, of every month of every year!
I agree and yet I also see the beauty in the yearly rememberance. all good.
Its a great time to celebrate this moment to acknowledge the goodness of being mentally healthy and sound mind. Thanks letting us know.
Happy memorial day to everyone! Let us all remember the men and women in the armed services
Mental health is so important. Thank you for sharing.
Your post has such a great message. It is just lovely
I like reading these poems above. Mental Heath is a very important conversation that we must not ignore. If we care for others, we would be open to listen with them.
That is very important. I agree…
This is a very timely post of motivation and inspiration as we make a month of awareness on the mental health. As the entire world is struggling on the pandemic, we must be intact, calm and strong especially on our mental side.
Yes, we must!
Love and high respect to all our fallen heroes. What you’ve done will always be remembered, and thanks for all the sacrifices you made!
This gives me more insight on Mental Health awareness and why we should acknowledge it. Thank you for sharing this article with us 🙂
I’m glad… thank you
It is about right to honor those who has served their country well. And mental health awareness is very crucial nowadays. The quarantine and the pandemic has changed lives in many different ways, both positive and negative. So this month, we honor those who has sacrificed their lives and check up on the living who may be suffering right now.
My sentiments exactly…
I’m not sure why I haven’t discovered your blog by now. You create amazing content that makes a positive impact in our lives. Love all the poems and that you create awareness for mental health.
Thank you… I really appreciate the feedback.
I had given much thought to the poems regarding war from John McCrae and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. They are both poignant and couldn’t have come at a better time for me to think about them.
Yes, I picked them for those reasons too.
I’m so glad that we have this special day in our loves where we pin about awareness on our mental health. It’s breaking the stigma. Kudos!
I am so glad you are sharing this. As a nurse, this is on the rise. I work with mental health patients and this social distancing has shown this. I love the message of love. That is all we can do during this time. This is a timely article. Loved it!!!🤗
Thank you too for the brave work you continue to do. I am grateful
Celebrating Memorial Day, is important for us appreciate the good deeds of our fallen heroes
It’s definitely important to be focusing on mental health this year. Thank you for posting all those resources for places to reach out to for help for those who need it right now.
I am hearing a lot about memorial day and thank you for actually telling what it is because enow i respect it even more. Also, i want to spend this month peacefully as i know I’m disturbing my mental heath from 2 years now. Any posts for that? I would love to read some.
I have lots of posts on Mental health. I added links to some here. Wishing you well..
Since my son’s schoolwork has all been at home for the last 11 weeks now, I learned a lot about the history of Memorial Day with him this past week as part of his lessons. I did not know it’s also Mental Health Awareness month, but you’re right that the two can go together in so many ways.
Yes, they really do. There is so much pain on both sides and we need to address it.
These poems are so touching. Mental health is something very close to my heart, it can be incredibly painful and it can take time to learn how to manage it effectively, but with the right support life can most definitely be worth living.
I love how much information this gives and how thorough it is!
I think especially at this time, we all need to really work on and protect our mental health. Is is a must.
I’m so glad we can talk about mental health more openly these days. I’ve been struggling SO much during lockdown, but I found a wonderful group of people to talk to online who have been amazing. It’s really helped keep me from the awful dark place I was heading to.
Louise x
Good for you to have found a safe place and community to help you. It is very important to get help…
I always look forward to celebrating Memorial day every year because it was an important event that shaped the world Into what it currently is. Nice write-up
I have become very aware of my mental health and work to keep myself mentally strong. Very timely post!
Wow it is amazing and much inspiring..the poems are really interesting to read…Thanks for sharing..when we are mentally healthy then we are able to do anything in our life…
Thank you for all of this information! May is such an important month. And also my daughter was born in May x
Woooow this is deeeep. Its alot to think about in such a month. Mental health is always been my awareness and something we all facing in such a situation
I didn’t know the number was 300 million, but that does not surprise me. There’s still a major stigma associated with mental health issues in most countries.
I learned all about how Memorial Day was created by freed blacks in Charleston, South Carolina. I hope others can come to know the true origin and meaning of the holiday!
All my respect to all the soldiers. I am new to the Memorial Day cultural and I love this country for the way it pays homage to the people who have lost their lives for this great country 🙂
Yes, that is correct. Thank you
How do I maintain a positive attitude when I am cooped up in the same surroundings day after day during this pandemic, let alone on memorial day?
Find an outlet that will help bring balance. Meditate, exercise. pray
I think mental health is so important. Apart from physical health, we also get tired emotionally. I hope we can lessen depression and anxiety. Be the light and source of optimism for other people!
This is a good time for us to pay attention to our mental health and thanks a lot for the motivation links! They should be helpful to a lot of stressed and depressed souls. – Knycx journeying
I love your idea of Motivation Mondays. Hope you had a Happy Memorial Day.
Thank you and you too!
Thanks for this. I agree that we should always give importance to our mental health. Thanks for sharing
Your post is spot on bringing together the topic of Mental Health awareness and Memorial Day. Mental health is more of a subject of conversation and posts like yours help bring awareness to the table. Thank you!
I’m glad you enjoyed it.
This is so informative and beneficial. It’s what everyone needs right now. The covid-19 has brought everyone to their lowest levels. This will bring us back and keep us up there.
Thanks.
The poems that you have covered are wonderful. It’s a nice read
hi
Mental Health Awareness is a very relevant topic that you have touched upon. 4Mind4Body is indeed an apt theme for this year in covid times
Yes, it reminds us of the importance of both.
Mental health is something a lot of people tend to take for granted. Thwnk you for reminding us about it.
I appreciate that.
As someone who is from a family of veterans and also have mental health, we have to strive everyday to make this world better for everyone, especially those for mental health,. We need to strive more to learn about the person.
We sure do. TY!
It was a very insightful and interesting post. Sometimes veterans look very hard and coping well with stress, but I don’t think anything associated with traumatic stress more than war.
Trauma can come through many sources… war is one of them.
What a beautiful post – thank you for sharing. Mental health is so important – also, Shiloh always moves me to tears. 🙂
I did not realize this was Suicide Prevention Month. Wow, this was very informative and good to know. I appreciate the poem that you shared here.
I love the poems you shared here! They were all so meaningful. Thank you for sharing some mental health resources as well.
I love the poems in here. They are really touching and right on par with the mood of current times.
I’m surprised to learn that 300 million people suffer from depression but these are selection of beautiful quotes.
Yes, I was surprised too.
As mental health awareness month comes to a close you’ve listed off some great tips and resources. This will be helpful for so many.
I do pray so…
What a great cause to focus on and bring awareness. Society is blessed to have you!
Happy mental health awareness month to everyone! Taking care of our mental health is important
During these difficult times everyone needs all the support they can get to get through. This post outlines them ao well. Thank you.
Thank you!
Today, Memorial Day weekend will be spent differently, just be safe and healthy. I enjoyed reading the information about mental health.
Such a great post on mental health and memorial day! Very informative on both subjects
It is so important to recognise mental health and also promote and raise awareness of this x
In Flanders Fields poem always makes me think of my Dad. Thank you for sharing.
Your posts always inspire me to have a much better day
Such a great post about mental health awareness month. Thank you for sharing.
These are such great resources. Especially considering what everyone is going through right now.
Those are great advice to take care of the mental health.
It’s so important to distinguish between Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Armed Forces Day. We should never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice and honor their memories.
We are in a fast-paced world and sometimes people forget to stop and relax. Some do not bother caring for themselves. I wish people makes time to ‘chill’ and realize that mental health is important. Great post!
I remain hopeful
This is a really great post and focusing on mental health is so important! I really love the poems, thanks for sharing 🙂
Very beautiful and deep poetry that ring true with this. Mental Health is so important today, and I believe poetry can help, by allowing people an outlet to express their themselves and their thoughts, instead of keeping them bottled up.
Many thanks for sharing!
Appreciated.
My Memorial Day looked quite a bit different this year. Rather than a la e gathering, I was able to have a quiet moment of reflection. It’s so important to honor the memory of those lost.
Memorial day is such a poignant occasion that it’s almost bitter-sweet to celebrate it.
I didn’t realize 1 in 5 suffers from mental health issues. Here’s hoping those who need help can get assistance from some of the resources you list.
Each individual have different ways to cope on their mental illness. All we can give is compassion for them.
I love the poem you posted by Benedetti, he’s one of my favorite. As for the sleep routine, I do all what you say and still my sleep is quite messy lately…
Aside from their physical fitness, we should also focus on our mental health and improve it by seeking knowledge, meditation and positive thoughts.
As always, this is such an important post. I love your blog. More power to you. Keep going.
As a happiness coach I know how important it is to be happy. Thanks for spreading awareness
I love the Lincoln quote. It is so true that quitting is on us, but failure is just part of the process and a way forward.
“Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going” such beautiful words. I hope everyone dealing with mental health problems over come it soon!
Self esteem is as important as the legs on a table is very true. I like that quote.
What a timely celebrations. Memorial Day is one of the best recognitions/tributes to our fallen heroes
Oof. I feel like Mental Health Awareness month needs to be acknowledged this year more than ever. It’s been a tough ride the last couple months. Thank you for the resources and inspiration!
Valuing our mental health is very important. It matters and it is necessary.
It seems like every year we get closer to understanding more about mental illness and how to treat it better. I am glad that we are making progress but hope that we continue to rapidly for the sake of those suffering.
I’m grateful too and there is more work to do…
I love what your pastor said about how it’s important to be present and enjoy the life we have. great article
me too. TY!
It is so important to understand mental illness as many people do not comprehend and pass judgment about them.
May has always been my favorite month. And not just because my birthday is at the end of it, haha. Memorial day is such a great holiday to remember those who have served. And I have a sister that suffers with a mental illness, so I know some of the struggles that go along with that. I didn’t know this was mental health awareness month, however. Thanks for sharing! Great poems as well. I always enjoy Longfellow.
Thank you Matt, Happy early birthday greeting, and thank you for speaking honestly about how this impacts you personally. It is a human condition and we are all in it and affected by it in some way.
Living so near Minneapolis I am struggling a little bit with my mental health right now. Hopefully I can figure it out.
It didn’t really feel like memorial day this year. We didn’t get to do what we normally do.
love yourself entirely anyway…amazing poems they are really much heart touching and has very deep meaning…loved your post..it is quite inspirational…
Such a wonderfully written article. It definitely is a very informative one. Your tips are indeed helpful !! More power to all of us! ☺️
I had no idea that it was a mental health awareness month. Well done for supporting such a worthy cause. I really liked reading this blog post, especially all the poems, thank you.
Mental Health is an important topic! Glad we have this awareness month!
Mental health around the world is at an all time perilous position. Thank you for calling attention to this issue.
This is an awesome article, importance Mental Awareness and Memorial Days can never be over emphasized, I read through this and find it motivating and very helpful. Thank you.
I like the poem and the different appreciation for Memorial Day you share! Thank you!
In this time of Covid-19, we’ve come face-to-face with the difficulties, aches and pains, trying relationships, closed spaced and all that can easily weigh us down.
It is also the time for healing and growth, and finding a way to the light and joy.
Yes, and may we all find it.
This is such an important topic that gets brushed aside!
your pastor is absolutely right. we need to set aside time for rest and relaxation. that’s why the lord created the sabbath.
Thank you. Same here
Yes memorial day and mental health awareness are both so important. And so many people are struggling with their mental health right now. I’m so glad May was mental health awareness month and that so many people posted about it.
Motivation is a must for great mental health. I am a veteran and Memorial Day I hold near and dear. Lots of vets suffer from bad mental health. I am sure this post is help many out.
What an interesting collection of material you have collated to share during mental health awareness month. Particularly this year while we all struggle through the pandemic, I think it is important that we also be mindful of how this will be impacting the state of our own mental health as well as those around us. If we are more aware, we are able to take preventative or corrective measures that might ensure we don’t add to the alarming statistics of the number of people suffering from mental health.
Yes, in the throes of the pandemic, many have not been able to address the mental health component. It is critical.
I love all of these poems! They are all beautifully written!
You always have the most beautiful poems in your blog. I love to reflect on them. Thank you for always inspiring me through them.
During these challenging times we really have to be aware of mental health challenges and support those that are struggling
We need to give alll those who servered the country the proper respect. Reese Butler he started something amazing for community.
This message hits close to home for me. I have several people in my life that are incredibly toxic to be around. They keep on pulling me down and belittling me, and stopping me from growing. I have to take care of my mental health and give myself a break.
I suggest that you do too. Self-care is key
I’m glad there’s a month dedicated to mental health, as that is a thing that is just as important as physical health. These poems are truly beautiful and heartwarming.
Yes, I’m grateful too.
I probably said it year ago but I am fascinated over the whole memorial day idea, not a memory of war but of heroes, solders fallen and lost. It is very important.
Health is everything for any person and I think 2020 only highlighted the issue
Yes, very, very important
This is so so importnant to check in with ourselves about our mental health! I know that this time is super hard for many.
This is a great post for mental health awareness, I am certain this is going to help someone out there!!
Lets give honor to the military who have died to defend the country and to those who continue to remain in the military service
Definitely, mental health is not a destination and certainly something of a process. Many people never realise this
I like your 5 tips to cope with stress during covid. They are good to think of no matter what stage of life we are in.
It’s actually from the CDC. I like them too
Every time I visit your blog, I learn something new and this is no exception. I can’t wait to read more!
Thank you, the sentiments are mutual.
This is such an amazing post, I love how informative it is. It’s covering important days of the months we often forget because it’s not written on our calendar.
You always have the best poems! Wonder how you come up with them.
How I wish every month is mental health month.
Mental Health awareness needs to be… Well thought about EVERY DAY!
I may make it again this way And love all today…This one blog is quite inspiring and interesting… loved all of the poems.. they are much heart touching…indeed deep…
Man, many will be more sensitive about mental awareness since its lockdown season, I hope the ones with severe cases can handle the situation well
I like how you covered both topics in one. There are so many mental health issues that tie in with the sacrifices many have made for our country.
Thank you for raising awareness about mental health. More people should definitely discuss it because it is just as important as our physical health. Having an open mind and listening to someone we know is helpful.
To be honest, every week I’m waiting for you blog. It’s very inspirational and make us remember on this kind of special day that we need to celebrate and honor.
Working towards being vulnerable about my struggles each day. We need to speak up and be heard!
Mental Heatlh Awareness Month is so important. Mental health still has such a huge stigma attached to it, and that makes it hard for people to ask for help no matter how much they might need it.
and love yourself
entirely anyway…. this is amazing and much inspiring post..loved all of the ideas and tips too.they are much helpful and informative…
I appreciate the positive feedback and insights too. TY!
I don’t know anyone who has been to war, but I can only imagine what they go through every day of their life, even after coming back home.
It’s been amazing to see how much has been done for mental health awareness week 🙌🏻
I am not very familiar with the works of Henry Wordsworth Longfellow but I feel I need to be after reading this.
Truly we must never forget the lives that have been given up in order that our country could be set free. Memorial Day really is an important event!
Emotional and mental health is important because it’s a vital part of your life and impacts your thoughts, behaviors and emotions. And Mental Health Awareness is necessary. Thanks for sharing the post
I think that Memorial Day’s true significance is often overlooked by people who see it as a jumping off point for summer. Thank you for this reminder of how important it is to remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
I agree… true.
We are all going through so many trials and tribulations with the virus and now Mr.Floyd. To call attention and remind people how important mental health is extremely relevant
Yes, indeed.
Thanks for sharing these poems and memorial words.
Mental Health is super important. This is the main processing happens so we have to make sure that it is healthy.
Mental health is something we don’t pay much attention to, and it’s sad. You continue to hear stories in the news of people who harm themselves or others to deal with the pain.
I love your blog, every time I come and read it I am just so motivated and inspired.
Flanders Field is a poem that we associate with Remembrance Day here in Canada. Interesting post, as always.
Yes, mental health awareness is must. I think it is pretty incredible that we as a society can all talk about mental health issues, help, and healing. We have come a long way in this conversation.
This is very nice and on point, as we remember and honer which can be diffclut for some people and remebering mental health important at this point.
Commemorating the hinorable men and women of our society is such a great act
“Solaced the parched ones stretched in pain
through the pause of night”
Such beautiful words. Thanks for sharing.
At times like this, I think its even more important to be away of mental helth issues. Stay safe!
Mental health and depression are issues that need lots of attention. Anyone could be touched by them in a lifetime. Else, someone close to you could be concerned someday.
This is such an important topic. There is still such a huge stigma surrounding mental illness. it makes it hard for people to ask for help.
Mental health is such an important topic and I’m glad you’re shining a light on it here. Great list of resources too.
Only those who are closed minded won’t understand. However, there is always ways to make them gradually understand mental illness, we just don’t give up on sharing information.
I didn’t know it was mental health awareness month – tx for the great poem also 🙂
as someone who has previously struggled w/ PTSD and Depression and Anxiety — thank you. Thanks for this great post. Hope many people see it.
THANK YOU AND I HOPE SO TOO.
It’s so vital to spread awareness about mental health. So many people think they are alone when they’re not
I’m not familiar with the Memorial Day holiday but have watched enough tv and movies to know the effect that Post Traumatic stress as a result of war time has had. I pray for the veterans who have lost their way and came back with mental health challenges that they were unable to cope with or find help for.
It’s so important to remember those who have sacrificed their lives for our countries and their families. However, our veterans need help too–so many are suffering without the resources they need.
Very nice article on mental illness awareness. I can relate to that.
I think its great you spoke about mental health awareness. We really need to break the stigma. I have talked about my struggles wiht PPD/PPA a ton!
mental health is something no one should joke with and we should pay great attention to. Thank you for sharing these wonderful insights.
I love this poem Resilience practice By Alex Elle. however, mental health is very important and I did not know there was a month for it.
It is no important to talk about mental health. I don’t know even now it is so difficult for us to come out and talk about our mental well being even to our friends. Very motivating post.
The quotes I ready and are truly awesome, they are so spirit lifting and emotional as well. Military and Servicemen are truly working, and we truly pray that the souls of the department rest in peace.
Two big things to shout about. No one should have to think of mental health as different to a physical illness. All those people who fought for their country must have gone through so much over and over in their mind. It’s so hard for us peace time folk to understand.
This is so informative, thank you so much
this is a great post to help spread awareness 🙂
This is a big deal now even more than ever. Mental health is key and everyone should support each other and motivate for sure x
This is very nice. I am feeling motivated and inspired.
You are very detailing on mental health and that is very good thank you for sharing all this
“Be kind to your mind”. I like that. It’s so easy to ignore one’s mental health before it is too late. It is all the more i important to take care of one’s mental health in these testing times.
Yes, mental health awareness is important. I have previously struggled with Depression and Anxiety. Thanks a lot for bringing this up.
With thw ay world is moving, Mental health awareness” is one of the an important topics that need to be highlighted. Most people suffer through mental illness but are reluctant speaking about it.
This is such an important topic, that needs to be talked about.Thank you so much for sharing. I really enjoyed reading this article.
There are days here in the Philippines, where we remember our heroes, too! Giving some insights about why we do this adds importance of these days. 🙂
Mental Health Awareness is a very important topic nowadays. We have to take care of our mental health.
A much needed topic these days. I sadly happen to loose one of my friend who was having difficult times during this lockdown. Take care of yourselves and families…
Absolutely important for each one of us to share mental health awareness, it’s a silent killer to healthy lifestyle. Thanks for always being inspiring
Thanks very much indeed with this helpful post . Have to admit that sometimes getting through with depression that I’m trying my best to get out of it and reading inspirational article like this is very helpful.
A very insightful and relatable post, Mental health is so important specially during these tough times
This is a beautiful way to raise awareness and show tribute. I love your use of poetry to give weight to your topic. It really always blends in nicely with your message.
Great post! Mental health is SO important and this is a great post to raise awareness. I hope I can do my part to help those in need as well.
mental health is very important….we need to speak up share our problems dont keep with ourselves..this is the reason why some people commit suicide they could not take it anymore but they dont want to share it with others….memorial day is important too,,,,here we call it national heroes day to commemorate our heroes who sacrifices their lives during war for the cause of freedom from foreign aggressors
I dont know if it was on purpose or merely coincidental but I am glad that they are putting more awareness on Mental Health around Memorial day. Too often we hear of so much PTSD among war veterans that tragically leads to suicide or death.
I also loved learning more about Memorial Day here in the U.S. I cant believe I had no idea that it was originally called Decoration Day or that it began in response to the great loss of life during the American Civil War. It makes sense but I had no idea. They should teach this more in school.
Definitely important. I agree.
I loved that youbtaked about mental health alongside memorial Day because they should definitely go together . A lot of our “hero’s” Suffer from PTSD and other mental illness which isn’t talked about enough
I must say that watching the TV series “Moon Knight” I realized how important it is to create awareness about mental health. Thanks also for the motivation!
There are nothing more important than taking care of your mental health and thanks a lot for sharing these positive motivation. Thank you.
Since the topic Mental Health is an evergreen, this inspiring and encouraging post doesn’t get old. So – thanx again!
The continues awareness and understanding about Mental Health is very important. We need to normalize it by continuing making conversation about the topic.
What a lovely day to celebrate both occassions. Truly I think we need to celebrate and thank those who served on Memorial Day. Also mental awareness should be celebrated everyday!
Thank you for speaking on this topic. It’s so important to spread awareness of mental health and reduce the stigma whenever possible.
There seem to be more and more people struggling with their mental health each day. It’s important for us all to help support each other when going through low times.
Thank you for sharing these tips on how to cope with mental health issues. I agree with you that having a restful sleep is equally important.