The phrase “you never know what someone is going through” has become a somewhat clichéd reminder to practice kindness. Even so, it’s true that behind every smile, behind every interaction, many people face silent, daily struggles — losing a loved one, chronic illness, mental health disorder, the list goes on. Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to open our eyes to the humanity around us and create practical ways to practice awareness and compassion in our everyday lives.
Silent Struggles We All Will Face
Mental health is a deeply personal issue and completely unique to each of us. Regardless of how similar our current circumstances may be, none of us have the same life experience, nor do we view life through the same lens. Even so, each of us will likely experience moments in our lives when we feel completely overwhelmed. Yet, many people continue to hide their struggles for fear of being judged, misunderstood or dismissed. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly one in five adults in the U.S. lives with a mental illness, but stigma still surrounds these issues, often keeping people from seeking the support they need. Whether caused by external circumstances or internal chemical imbalance, these battles are often invisible to others, and the pressures to “push through” or “keep going” can make it even harder to ask for help.
Awareness is the First Step Toward Compassion
However despite these barriers, as we begin to acknowledge that everyone is fighting their own battles, we become more aware. Awareness, in this context, is about being conscious of the emotional and mental struggles that others might be experiencing. It means recognizing that not all battles are visible on the surface. Perhaps the surly grump is masking a crushing sorrow, or the smiliest individual is wrestling with addiction.
Building awareness of mental health can begin with small, yet impactful steps. Start by examining your own thoughts and behaviors. Do you judge others when they act distant, impatient or irritable? Do you ever assume that someone is “fine” just because they seem to be coping well on the outside? Instead of jumping to conclusions about someone’s actions, take the time to listen and engage with them. Sometimes, a simple “If you want to talk, I’m here” can open the door. Whether they choose to share or not, it can make the other person feel seen and understood.
Compassion: The Bridge Between Awareness and Action
While awareness is the foundation, compassion is the driving force that helps us translate that awareness into meaningful action. Compassion is the ability to recognize someone’s pain and desire to alleviate it. It’s about offering kindness, patience and understanding, without judgement, both to others and to ourselves. One way to show compassion is by providing a listening ear. So often, people simply need someone who will listen without interrupting, without offering advice, someone to simply sit beside them in this hard moment.
Additionally, in a society that often praises hustle culture, we must remind each other that it’s okay to take breaks, ask for help and prioritize our mental wellbeing. Compassion also includes small acts of kindness, whether through a text message, a phone call, a genuine compliment, or a favorite treat. It is not a matter of solving their problems or big gestures, but rather, letting them know that you see them and are in their corner.
Key Takeaways for Practicing Awareness and Compassion
- Be Kind to Yourself: Another mental health cliché is, ‘You can’t pour from an empty cup.’ Still, we must remember that self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Practice self-compassion, otherwise we are simply hypocrites.
- Don’t Assume – Ask and Listen: Avoid making judgments based on appearances. If you’re concerned about someone, reach out and let someone know that, if they want to tell you how they’re really doing, you care and are ready to listen. They do not have to share, but let them know you’re there for them, no matter what.
- Be Present in Conversations: Sometimes people just need to feel heard. When someone opens up to you, put down your phone, make eye contact, and give them your full attention. Your presence can offer comfort and validation.
- Offer Support, Not Solutions: Often, when someone shares their struggles, we immediately want to fix the situation. But sometimes, the most compassionate thing we can do is simply offer a listening ear or a comforting presence.
- Celebrate Others’ Small Wins: Healing is not always linear, and progress can be slow. Celebrate small victories — whether it’s getting out of bed, making it through the day, or reaching out for help. Acknowledging progress fosters an environment of compassion and support.
- Promote Mental Health Resources: When someone shares that they’re struggling, do not pressure, but gently remind them of available professional resources such as therapy, support groups or hotlines, along with work-related resources that could assist them at this time. Help destigmatize seeking help and make it a normal part of wellness.
This month there will be a plethora of articles addressing the importance of our own mental health, and, yes, that is so important and good. And with all those articles to choose from, I want to thank you for taking the time to consider the struggles of those around us. As we become more aware, the pain and compassion and hard-won wisdom of those around us can truly be humbling. Together, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment for everyone, regardless of the battles they are facing.
