May is Mental Health Month
Back To Basics: Practical Mental Health Information The pandemic has been a catalyst for increased discussion about mental health, and we need to make sure this trend continues. In the past, when people thought about mental health the topic took a myopic view that focused on illness. While mental illnesses are common, widespread, and can…
How Can We Support Young People’s Mental Health As They Return To School?
Labor Day is fast approaching, which means a return to school for many. The beginning of the school year is a time filled with excitement, anticipation, nervousness, and other emotions. But this year, beyond the normal stresses, we face the uncertainties of an ongoing global pandemic. Most young people and parents I’ve spoken with are…
Can We Move Beyond Describing Actions to Take Care of Our Mental Health Courageous?
As I read news that Simone Biles had withdrawn from competing in the all-around competition in the Olympic Games, several thoughts came to mind. I felt admiration for this young, black, female athlete, who was prioritizing her mental health needs above pursuit of Olympic Gold. I’m thankful that she took a stand and brought more…
Anniversary Reactions Are Real, And Common
Yesterday, as we hit the one-year mark since the COVID-19 shutdown, I started to think about anniversaries. Have you ever felt a sense of sadness from out of the blue, only to look at the calendar and realize that your feeling corresponds with the anniversary of some unhappy or jarring event? On March 11, 2020,…
Everyone Has a Personal History That Led Them to Where They Are Today
You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. On Presidents’ Day, I’m remembering the first book I ever read about Abraham Lincoln. I was a first-grader assigned to read a biography about a hero, and then write a report on it. The cover showed an awkward-looking boy in ill-fitting overalls. He was carrying an axe…
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COLLEEN MERLO, LMSW 