May 5, 2026

Breaking the Silence: How We Can Reduce Mental Health Stigma Together

May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States, a designation in place since 1949. It is a time to focus or refocus on self-care, recognize the importance of mental health and honor the courage of millions of people living with mental illness.

Many people place strong emphasis on physical health, yet mental health is just as essential to overall well-being. Mental and physical health are closely connected. According to the CDC, untreated mental health conditions such as depression can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The World Health Organization identifies depression as a leading cause of disability and suicide and the third leading cause of death among people ages 15 to 29.

About 50 percent of Americans will experience a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lives, yet fewer than half will receive treatment.

This year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the 2023 UWCFD featured nonprofit, is leading Mental Health Awareness Month with a focus on creating community. Through Speak Up Against the Stigma, NAMI encourages open dialogue, empathy, understanding and healing.

This month, take some time to prioritize your mental health. Below are some suggested ways you can take care of yourself holistically.

1. Prioritize yourself.
   Your well-being matters. Making yourself a priority may include quality sleep, simple routines or meaningful self-care. This looks different for everyone. Try identifying three small ways you can honor your needs and protect your energy each day.
2. Step back from social media.
   Social media can be consuming. Setting aside an hour or more without scrolling helps restore focus, presence and connection. Taking breaks can improve sleep and reduce comparison, allowing you to stay grounded in your real everyday life.
3. Practice mindfulness.
   Small moments add up. Just a few minutes of meditation or mindfulness can increase calm, reduce anxiety and boost self-awareness. If stillness feels difficult, try mindful activities like coloring, stretching or slow breathing.
4. Limit substance use.
   Many people turn to substances to unwind. Overuse can negatively impact emotional health and daily functioning. Moderation supports balance. If use feels hard to manage, reaching out for help is a healthy and supportive step.
5. Spend time outside.
   Being outdoors reduces stress and supports emotional well-being. Fresh air and sunlight can lift mood and promote joy. Even short daily time outside or caring for plants can strengthen your connection to nature.
6. Build meaningful connections.
   Connection supports resilience. Spending intentional time with friends, family or community groups fosters belonging. If you want to meet new people, try local classes, clubs or activities aligned with your interests.
7. Move in ways you enjoy.
   Movement benefits mental health. Exercise does not need to be intense. Walking, dancing, yoga or stretching all count. Choose activities that feel good and fit naturally into your routine.
8. Make room for play.
   Play is important at every age. It reduces stress, strengthens relationships and sparks creativity. Hobbies, games and shared laughter all count. Prioritize joy and give yourself permission to have fun.
9. Practice daily gratitude.
   Gratitude helps balance life’s challenges. Noticing three things you are grateful for each day can build mindfulness and hope. A simple list on your phone can gently shift perspective.
10. Ask for support when needed.
    Everyone faces difficult seasons. Reaching out to trusted people or professionals can reduce emotional weight. Learning about available resources like employee programs or community services makes support more accessible.

Are you or someone you know in crisis? Call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24/7 to speak to a counselor, including those trained to support LGBTQ+ youth and veterans. At the University of Washington, an additional resource available for staff is the Employee Assistance Program.

Support

Consider making a one-time contribution or setting up payroll deduction to one of our UWCFD member organizations working to provide quality mental health services and de-stigmatize seeking care.

Supporting a nonprofit in your community or on campus is simple and meaningful. You can make a one-time gift or set up an ongoing payroll deduction through the UWCFD. Search by charity name or by the type of work they do to find a cause that resonates with you.

Can’t find the organization you’re looking for? We’re here to help! Email us at uwcfd@uw.edu and we’ll reach out to invite them to join the CFD.

Your generosity and engagement make a difference.