Every May, Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of caring for our minds just as much as our bodies. While conversations about mental health are growing louder—and rightly so—many people still wonder: What can I do to make a difference?

The truth is, you don’t have to launch a campaign or become a mental health professional to have an impact. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday actions that help reduce stigma, offer support, and spark meaningful change.

Here are five simple things you can do this May to support mental health awareness, starting with yourself and extending to your community.

1. Check In on a Friend or Loved One

People who live with mental health struggles often withdraw from others due to a combination of factors. Someone with depression may have a decline in social skills or a negative self-perception, making it difficult to spend time with others. A person with anxiety may avoid social situations in order to protect themselves from perceived judgment or criticism.

Try to remember that when people with mental health problems withdraw, it’s not because you’ve done something wrong. They are battling things within themselves. Therefore, a quick message can go a long way in helping them feel understood and less alone. You don’t need to fix the person’s problems; you just need to listen.

Whether it’s a phone call, text, or in-person chat, asking someone how they’re really doing opens the door to connection. You can start off a conversation with something simple like, “I’ve been thinking about you. How are you holding up lately?” This small gesture of kindness may give someone the courage to open up and seek help.

2. Learn Something New About Mental Health

Educating yourself on mental health is a beneficial thing to do, as the more you understand this topic, the more compassion and support you can offer to yourself and others. Furthermore, education helps dispel myths and misconceptions about mental health, creating a more inclusive environment where individuals around you might be empowered to seek an outpatient recovery program.

So how can you educate yourself on mental health? Take 10 minutes to read an article, watch a video, or listen to a podcast about a mental health topic you’re less familiar with, whether it’s anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or trauma-informed care. Some of our favorite topics to read about include the basics of common mental health conditions, how childhood trauma affects adult mental health, and what to say (and not to say) to someone who’s struggling.

3. Practice a Small Act of Self-Care

Supporting mental health awareness starts with honoring your own needs. Take a walk, drink water, journal for five minutes, unplug from social media, or say “no” to something that drains you. When you take care of your own mental health, you set an example and create a stronger foundation for helping others.

Remember, self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary.

4. Share a Resource or Message on Social Media

Not everyone knows where to go for mental health help. This May, use your online voice to share a hotline number, a mental health organization, or a personal story (if you’re comfortable). For example, you can post something like, “May is Mental Health Awareness Month. If you or someone you love is struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available. Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 support.”

Sharing resources or positive messages reduces stigma and can encourage someone to seek professional support. It also reminds people that they are not alone, even though mental illness can trick them into thinking this.

5. Support a Mental Health Organization

Whether it’s a small donation, volunteering your time, or participating in a local awareness walk, supporting organizations that provide mental health services amplifies your impact. Many nonprofits rely on community support to expand access to care, educate the public, and advocate for better mental health policies. When you support these organizations, you give them more visibility and allow them to reach more people in need.

Raising Awareness and Taking Action This May

Mental Health Awareness Month is about more than raising awareness; it’s about taking action, no matter how small. Whether you reach out to a friend, care for yourself, or share a helpful resource, your efforts can ripple outward in powerful ways.

This May, let’s show up for ourselves and each other, not just with words, but with simple, meaningful acts of support. If you know someone who needs help, Pura Vida Recovery in Santa Rosa, CA can help. We offer inpatient residential and outpatient programs that treat substance use and mental health disorders while helping clients rebuild their lives. Contact us today at (707) 879-8432.