May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to raise our voices, open our hearts, and face a growing crisis with empathy and urgency.
A Global Crisis Close to Home
Mental health challenges are rising worldwide, but in the United States, the numbers are especially alarming. Nearly 1 in 5 adults live with a mental illness, and suicide is now a leading cause of death, particularly among young adults and veterans.
Seasonal changes—especially the transition into spring and early summer—have been linked to increased suicide rates, a heartbreaking reminder that brighter weather doesn’t always mean brighter spirits.
That’s why May was intentionally chosen: to highlight that mental health care shouldn’t take a backseat when it is needed most. The struggles are real—and often invisible.
Recognizing the Signs
One of the first steps toward prevention is awareness—in ourselves and in others. Signs that someone may be experiencing a mental health crisis can include:
- Withdrawal or isolation
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Hopelessness or lack of motivation
- Sudden mood swings
- Talking about feeling like a burden or wanting to disappear
Trust your instincts. If something feels “off,” it’s okay to check in. A simple “How are you really doing?” can be life-changing. Check in with yourself, check in with others.
Opening the Conversation
Talking about mental health shouldn’t feel taboo. At Mavela, we believe that seeking support is a strength, not a shortcoming. Let’s normalize:
- Going to therapy the same way we normalize going to the gym.
- Rest days for your mind as much as your body.
- Asking for help—and receiving it without shame.
When we open space for honest conversations, we stomp out stigma and make room for healing.
Steps Toward Prevention
While we can’t solve everything overnight, there are ways you can help prevent crisis.
- Create daily rituals that support mental well-being: movement, breathwork, journaling, or even unplugging from screens.
- Build community—check on your friends, speak kindly to yourself, and stay connected.
- Educate yourself on mental health first aid and how to respond to someone in distress.
- Support access to care through advocacy, donations, and volunteering.
Resources to Know
If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 support
- NAMI HelpLine – 1-800-950-NAMI or text "HELPLINE" to 62640
- Therapy Resources – PsychologyToday.com, BetterHelp, local health clinics
- Crisis Text Line – Text “HOME” to 741741
What We Stand For
At Mavela, we advocate for intentional living and mental resilience. We donate a portion of our profits to mental health initiatives and offer free wellness resources because we believe preventative care starts with daily choices, honest dialogue, and accessible tools.
This May, let’s stand together in breaking the silence, supporting one another, and building a healthier future—for ourselves and for generations to come.
You are not alone. You are not a burden. And you will prevail.
#MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #BreakTheStigma #MentalHealthMatters