How to Check In With Yourself During Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month is a valuable opportunity to slow down and truly ask yourself how you're doing — not just physically, but also emotionally and mentally. At Mindfully Mended Psychiatry in Burleson, TX, board-certified psychiatric mental health specialist Dr. Jessica Stehl is committed to helping clients feel seen, understood, and empowered to take charge of their mental wellness through thoughtful, evidence-based care.

Keep reading for a few simple but easy and impactful ways to check in with yourself this month — like taking stock of mental health symptoms and asking questions to self-reflect — and what to do if something doesn't feel quite right with your mental well-being.

When is Mental Health Awareness Month?

Mental Health Awareness Month is observed every May in the United States and serves as a national reminder of the importance of mental wellness. While it's easy to focus on work, family, or daily stressors, this time encourages each of us as individuals to reflect on our mental health and take proactive steps toward healing, balance, and emotional well-being. Whether you're already managing a mental health condition or simply want to be more in tune with your emotional state, Mental Health Awareness Month is a great moment to pause, assess, and reach out for support if needed.

What are mental health warning signs to be aware of?

Each person's experience is different, but there are certain signs that may indicate it's time to pay closer attention to your mental health. Some red flags for mental health problems to watch for in yourself or a loved one may include:

• Feeling persistently sad or hopeless
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Increased irritability or anxiety
• Social withdrawal
• Difficulty focusing or making decisions
• Loss of interest in activities
• Physical symptoms without a clear cause (like fatigue or headaches)
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Recognizing these signs of mental health issues early is the first step in getting the care and support you deserve.

What questions should I ask to evaluate my own mental health?

Self-reflection is a simple but effective way to check in with your mental well-being. Try asking yourself:

• Have I been feeling more anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed lately?
• Am I getting enough rest, nourishment, and movement?
• Do I feel supported in my relationships?
• Am I able to enjoy activities that usually bring me joy?
• Have I experienced any mood changes or persistent low energy?
• Is there something I've been avoiding or struggling to cope with?

Journaling your answers or speaking with a trusted friend can help you identify patterns and make informed decisions about next steps for a mental health evaluation, treatment, or a change to your existing psychiatry treatment plan.

When should I call a psychiatrist?

Reaching out to a mental health provider doesn't require a crisis. It's perfectly appropriate to schedule a mental health evaluation any time you feel out of sync, emotionally stuck, or simply unsure of how you're doing. At Mindfully Mended Psychiatry, Dr. Stehl offers comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and individual therapy to help clients regain balance and move forward with confidence. If you're dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, postpartum symptoms, or other emotional challenges, seeking support now can prevent issues from becoming more severe and help you feel like yourself once again.

Enjoy all that life has to offer with mental health services in Burleson, TX

Feeling stuck in your mental health can be lonely — but we are here to help. At Mindfully Mended Psychiatry in Burleson, TX, Dr. Jessica Stehl and our caring team are proud to offer a variety of solutions designed to help you reconnect with your sense of peace, purpose, and possibility. Whether you're ready to start therapy, need support with medication management, or just want to feel heard, contact us to schedule your personalized consultation today.