May is Mental Health Awareness

May is a meaningful time to reflect on and support those whose lives are touched by mental illness. It is a reminder to keep individuals and families affected by these challenges in our prayers and close to our hearts.

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, in his landmark talk “Like a Broken Vessel,” offered this compassionate insight:

“These afflictions are some of the realities of mortal life, and there should be no more shame in acknowledging them than in acknowledging a battle with high blood pressure or the sudden appearance of a malignant tumor.”

Mental health struggles are real, and they are not a reflection of personal weakness or spiritual failure. There are many ways we can find help and hope—and offer it to others. Our Church provides helpful resources for emotional resilience and spiritual strength, reminding us that healing often comes through the love and support of those around us.

My own family was caught off guard by mental illness many years ago. But through faith, compassion, and the kindness of others, we experienced healing and recovery. That experience inspired us to give back. For the past seven years, we’ve volunteered with NAMI Capital Region, an organization that offers free support, education, and resources to individuals and families facing mental health challenges.

With love and gratitude, The McGreevys