May, Mental Health Month 2023: More than Enough
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the 2023 theme is “More Than Enough.” The National Alliance on Mental Illness emphasizes that this month serves as a reminder of our inherent value, regardless of diagnosis, appearance, socioeconomic status, background, or ability.
If all you did today was wake up, that’s more than enough; you are inherently worthy of life, love, and happiness.
Why Do We Have the Feeling that We Are Not Enough?
Many people who have anxiety and/or depression often feel like no matter what they do, they are “never enough.”
Feeling inadequate is a learned behavior, beginning in childhood, and later reinforced through life experiences.
When children feel anxious or afraid, they are unable to rationalize why they feel that way. They believe, “Something must be wrong with me if I feel bad.”
Children who are neglected or abused internalize that message and grow up to be adults who carry a lot of shame. They tell themselves, “I must be bad if I’m being mistreated.” When they can’t prevent or compensate for feeling ashamed, they can become overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed. It’s a vicious circle.
Many Risk Factors for Mental Health Issues
Abuse and neglect aren’t the only risk factors for developing a mental health condition like anxiety or depression. Other causes include childhood or adult trauma (one-time or ongoing), environmental influences (such as financial stability and healthcare access), genetics, brain chemistry imbalances, and lifestyle habits like insufficient sleep.
Online Screening for Mental Health
Mental health conditions are common and treatable. Reliable online screening, like those at the Mental Health America website, can help you determine quickly and easily whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.
Mental and Physical Health Are Connected
If you’re experiencing any mental health issues, it’s also crucial to consult your primary care physician. Mental and physical health are related, your physician may recommend additional physical testing to determine if you have issues that contribute to your mental health condition.
In addition to seeking professional help, maintaining overall wellness through healthy eating habits, daily exercise routines, and mindfulness techniques can be beneficial. Share your feelings with friends and family members. Remember: no one should have to face these challenges alone.
You Are More Than Enough
In conclusion, remember: you are more than enough, and are deserving of life, love, and happiness. If you are struggling with feeling worthy or enough, or have questions or concerns regarding your personal mental health, please feel free to contact me at IsobelMcgrath.com or 904-806-8840.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Sources: The National Alliance on Mental Illness and Mental Health America
Isobel McGrath is a licensed International Mental Health Counselor, Life Coach, and Certified Hypnotherapist located in St. Augustine, FL.
Isobel provides therapy, counseling, life coaching, and hypnosis in person at her St. Augustine Beach office, and through Telehealth. She is dedicated to providing exceptional, collaborative care, and truly cares about her clients and their well-being.
For more information about St. Augustine Therapist Isobel McGrath, please visit IsobelMcGrath.com, Mindful-Options.com, and 30SecondsOfCalm.com.