It’s spring! The air is warm, the birds are singing, trees have greened, flowers are blooming. Christ has risen from the grave bringing us hope and transformation. Renewed again by spring and our Christian beliefs, many of us feel our steps quicken and our loads lighten.
But for some, the sights and sounds of spring go unnoticed. Or worse, there is awareness, but the knowledge only reinforces the belief that they are all alone; one who doesn’t get to feel the joy of spring; an outsider who doesn’t deserve the beauty that Christ’s resurrection promises the world.
May is National Mental Health Awareness month and it’s not by chance that it comes in the spring. Spring is associated with growth, renewal, and hope. Unfortunately, many people who experience mental illnesses live in the darkness and solitude of their illness.
Together, we can bring hope to those experiencing mental illness. We can fight the stigma of mental illness by educating ourselves and others and by having open and honest conversations. Most of all we can help by embracing those who are struggling. As Christ brings us reassurance, and as spring brings new beginnings, let’s remember to keep watch with those who struggle.