May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States, established in 1949 by Mental Health America to reduce stigma, educate the public and support those with mental health conditions.

The observance underscores that mental health is essential to overall wellness, aiming to normalize conversations and increase access to care.

The organization is launching a monthlong initiative focused on building healthier habits and increasing awareness, reminding the public that “More good days don’t just happen. We build them. Together.”

Mental Health America is inviting people to take part by visiting https://mhanational.org/may, where they can access resources, sign up for updates and download a full calendar of activities designed to support mental wellness. Participants are also encouraged to track their progress by counting “good days” throughout the month.

MHA is offering activities such as reflecting on what brings a sense of pleasure, peace and pride, identifying small positive moments in daily life and journaling to better process emotions and experiences. The campaign also encourages individuals to support causes that matter to them, whether through volunteering or donations, and to take time for personal check-ins.

As part of that effort, Mental Health America is promoting a free, anonymous and confidential mental health screening available at https://mhascreening.org, describing it as a good place to start and begin a journey into better understanding and managing one’s mental health.

Additional suggested practices include using affirmations to boost confidence and reduce anxiety, naming and understanding emotions to respond more thoughtfully and limiting exposure to social media content that negatively impacts self-esteem. The campaign also encourages people to find lessons in challenging situations and to practice self-care during emotionally complex times, such as holidays that may bring mixed feelings.

Mental Health America will continue sharing tools, tips and information throughout the month, reinforcing that improving mental health is an ongoing process and a shared responsibility. More information is available at https://mhanational.org/may.