May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation is excited to emphasize the importance of mental health again in 2025. BEE Kind, founded in May of 2023 in partnership with the Counseling Center of Highlands, is an initiative that is based on the premise that “Mental Health Begins With Kindness.” Everyday simple acts of kindness can contribute to boosting mood, reducing stress, and possibly alleviating symptoms of depression or anxiety for yourself and others. In addition, what might seem like a small kind gesture could have a greater impact than you might think.
In addition to promoting kindness in our community, BEE Kind is committed to helping people recognize how mental illness impacts their lives. There are many misconceptions and stigma surrounding mental health issues. Because of this, people often suffer in silence and don’t seek treatment for their conditions. There is no health without mental health, and it is crucial to improve our understanding of mental health conditions and increase access to healthcare for those who need it in our community.
Nearly one in five adults in the US has a mental health condition. However, that one person has family, friends, and others whose lives are touched by their condition, even if they do not suffer from one themselves. It is important for caregivers, friends, and loved ones to understand the impact that mental health has on daily life. When people gain a better understanding of these conditions, they can provide more effective support to someone dealing with a mental health issue.
Recognition and education are important ways to remove the stigma associated with mental illness. Throughout the month of May, the Health Foundation will once again collaborate with the Counseling Center of Highlands and various organizations and businesses across the Plateau to help create a time and space to start a conversation. Talking openly about mental health can reduce the misconceptions and stigma and encourage those who are suffering to seek help and find a support network.
If someone in your life is struggling with their mental health, the best thing you can do is reach out and start a conversation. Educate yourself about the realities of living with mental health issues and confront any feelings of stigma or judgment you may have. For information on how to begin these conversations, please visit the BEE Kind Mental Health Resources page or attend a BEE Kind event. These can be found at www.healthyplateau.org/beekind. Simply supporting those in your life can help spread the message of awareness and acceptance.
There are many ways to support BEE Kind. You can begin by placing a sticker on your business window, computer, or cup, or by putting a yard sign at your home or business. We encourage you to support BEE Kind Bingo on May 22 at the Highlands Community Building starting at 6:30 p.m. All proceeds will benefit mental health services on the Plateau. Please email Josh Bryson at j.bryson@hchealthfnd.org for more information about how you can be part of BEE Kind.
As mental health gains more prominence in national discussions, the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation remains dedicated to enhancing support networks, combating stigma, and fostering mental well-being and prevention across the Plateau. Your involvement in BEE Kind this May will make a difference!
