Advocating Mental Health Awareness Through the Lens
As a professional photographer, I believe in the power of imagery to evoke emotions, tell stories, and ignite conversations. But beyond capturing beautiful moments, I am deeply passionate about advocating for mental health wellness. This May, in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s come together to amplify this vital conversation.
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook the importance of mental well-being. We often prioritize physical health over mental health, forgetting that they are intricately connected. As creatives, we pour our hearts and souls into our work, yet we must remember to nurture our minds as well.
This month serves as a reminder to prioritize self-care, to check in with ourselves and those around us, and to break the stigma surrounding mental health. To support this cause, I’ve compiled a few quotes that resonate deeply with me:
“You don’t have to be positive all the time. It’s perfectly okay to feel sad, angry, annoyed, frustrated, scared, or anxious. Having feelings doesn’t make you a ‘negative person.’ It makes you human.” – Lori Deschene
“You are allowed to take up space. You are allowed to talk about your feelings. You are allowed to ask for help and support. You are allowed to prioritize your mental health.” – Unknown
“Your mental health is a priority. Your happiness is essential. Your self-care is a necessity.” – Unknown
“You are stronger than you think. You are not alone. You are loved. You are worthy of support.” – Unknown
“Be kind to yourself. You’re doing the best you can with what you have in this moment. That’s all anyone can ever ask of you.” – Unknown
Let’s use our artistry and platforms to destigmatize mental health issues and foster a culture of empathy and understanding. Together, we can spark meaningful conversations, offer support to those in need, and create a world where mental wellness is valued as highly as physical health.
Join me in spreading awareness, compassion, and hope this Mental Health Awareness Month. Together, let’s make a difference. #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #EndTheStigma #YouAreNotAlone
May 6, 2024 Author RACHEAL TUNGU
This is so thoughtful and a timely reminder for the month. I love the quote that reminds us that we do not have to be positive all the time and that it is okay to feel sad, angry and annoyed…. it is human after all.