May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a time to prioritize caring for our emotional and psychological wellbeing.
In a world that often moves too fast and demands too much, it can feel radical to slow down, rest or even ask for help. Jewish Family Services provides a range of counseling services for both adults and children. Just as we recognize the importance of regular exercise or balanced nutrition, our mental health deserves the same care and attention.
Taking time for mental health isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. When we’re emotionally well, we’re better equipped to handle stress, build meaningful relationships, make thoughtful decisions and show up fully in our lives. Mental health is foundational to overall health. Don’t wait until you’re burned out, anxious or in crisis to give yourself permission to step back and tend to your needs.
There are countless ways to care for your mental health; they don’t have to be complicated, time-consuming or expensive. A few minutes of deep breathing, a short walk in nature, connecting with a friend, journaling or setting boundaries around your time can all make a difference. It’s more important to do it, to pay attention at all, than to do it ‘perfectly.’ Keep coming back to the habit, too, even when you miss some days.
Wellness isn’t something we have to do alone. Therapy, support groups, coaching and community spaces can offer powerful connection and insight. JFS offers a variety of services that can meet these needs. Sometimes the most important step is simply acknowledging that we need support.
For those in caregiving or high-demand roles — parents, healthcare workers, educators, therapists and leaders — prioritizing your own mental health can feel especially difficult. But it's not selfish. In fact, it’s one of the most generous things you can do. When your cup is full, you're better able to show up for others with presence and compassion. What works well for someone else may not be your cup of tea — don’t compare.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, we invite you to reflect: What supports your wellbeing? Where might you need to set boundaries or ask for help? How can you make space for rest, joy and connection — not just when things get hard, but as a regular part of life?
Taking time for mental health isn’t an indulgence. It’s a sign of strength and self-respect. Whether it’s a brief moment or a whole therapy session, every bit counts. You’re worth that care — not just this month, but every month.
If you or your loved ones need support, JFS is here for you; please call a JFS navigator at (913) 730-1433 or email .