Encouraging, Supporting, and Connecting with Our Community
When I think of community, awareness is one of the first things that comes to mind. We can’t support one another without being aware of what the needs of the community and its members are! This “Awareness” hub is our way to help give direction and support to connecting with people who may need help, uplifting, or even a little extra love today. These causes inspire us and help us take action to do what we can to connect with those around us.
Courtney Clark, HeyNN Manager
Creating Awareness
Creating Awareness
National Men’s Health Month
How Men Are Really Doing?
June is National Men’s Health Month, but health is about so much more than going to the gym or trying to eat healthier. It’s also about stress, burnout, pressure, sleep, loneliness, and the emotional weight people carry every day without talking about it.
A lot of men grow up hearing phrases like “man up,” “don’t cry,” or “just deal with it.” Over time, that kind of messaging can make it difficult to open up, ask for support, or even recognize when something feels wrong in the first place. Instead of talking about stress, anxiety, exhaustion, or emotions, many people learn to push through it quietly and hope things eventually get better on their own.
But struggling silently doesn’t make someone stronger.
It usually just makes them feel more alone.
Mental and physical health are deeply connected, even if we do not always realize it. Stress can affect sleep, energy, focus, motivation, relationships, and overall well-being. When life gets overwhelming, taking care of yourself is often one of the first things to fall to the side.
This month is not about becoming a completely different person overnight or suddenly having everything figured out. It is simply a reminder to check in with yourself honestly and pay attention to how you are really doing, not just how you appear to be doing from the outside.
Have you been resting enough lately?
Eating consistently?
Getting outside or moving your body?
Taking time away from work or responsibilities?
Talking to anyone honestly about how you have actually been feeling?
Have you been supporting everyone else while ignoring yourself in the process?
Men’s Health Month is also a reminder that vulnerability is not weakness. Asking for help, taking care of your body, going to the doctor, opening up to someone you trust, or admitting that you are overwhelmed are all forms of strength. No one should have to wait until they reach a breaking point before they feel allowed to seek support.
You do not have to be falling apart for your health to matter.
This Month, We Encourage You To:
Check in with a friend or family member you have not talked to in a while
Take a real break instead of constantly pushing yourself past exhaustion
Spend time outside, move your body, or do something that helps you feel grounded
Schedule a doctor’s appointment or health check you have been putting off
Be honest when someone asks how you are doing
Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish
Call 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), text “HelpLine” to 62640 or email us at helpline@nami.org