Last week I stumbled on a wonderful resource from Stamp Out Stigma, an initiative spearheaded by the Association for Behavioral Health and Wellness. Their 2021 National Mental Health Observances calendar reminded me how important it is that we celebrate and care for our mental health each and every day.
Mental Health During the Pandemic
This reminder came on the heels of an article about pandemic fatigue among mental health professionals. When I posted it on LinkedIn, I was blown away by the dozens of responses! So many of my colleagues reiterated how dire the circumstances are — not just for people in our field but for the world in general.
That’s why in this month’s blog I wanted to touch on several of the mental health and human rights celebrations happening in March. Especially during challenging times, our shared experiences will carry us through the remaining months of the pandemic.
Mental Health Observances in March
American National Nutrition Month
- March is American National Nutrition Month — a topic near and dear to my heart as a specialist in eating disorders/mental health.
International Women’s Day
- On March 8 the world will celebrate International Women’s Day. I will definitely be thinking about YouTuber Lilly Singh. Lilly has been open with her personal struggles on Instagram:
- I’ll also be think about all the women who continue to inspire and empower me, including Michelle Obama and Rihanna. And speaking of…
- Along with other amazing women like Meena Harris and Greta Thunberg, Riri has boldly spoken out about the farmer’s protests happening right now in my family’s region of Punjab in India. It’s beautiful to see women from different ethnic backgrounds/races embrace and support one another and the injustices in the world.
World Poetry Day
- Speaking of incredible women, World Poetry Day is March 21, and I’m in love with these poems from feminist poet Rupi Kaur. She has been a leading voice in support of the protests as well. I highly recommend reading her editorial in the Washington Post.
The Ongoing Farmer’s Protests in Punjab
As you may have read, Sikhs around the world have united and held peaceful rallies to support the farmer’s protests in India. The farmers demand that Prime Minister Modi repeal laws forcing them to sell crops directly to private firms instead of to licensed middlemen, according to Bloomberg.
Learn more about the farmer’s protest on this great Instagram feed.
Inkquisitive did a exceptional job illustrating a story of the ongoing farmer’s protest.
Self-Care Every Day of the Year
If you feel overwhelmed by everything that’s happening right now, you’re not alone. I am always here to help. Send me an email to schedule your free consultation today. When we care for ourselves, we can better care for others. And we are all in this together.
I feel mental health has been an ongoing battle for a lot of individuals, especially during the pandemic. For example, limitation of seeing friends and families can take a toll on one’s health. I’m sure there are many other examples that result in mental health issues due to the pandemic. However, I am glad you have decided to dedicate your March Blog post for mental health awareness. There has always been a stigma around Mental health but it is time to normalize it. Great Blog!