Since the beginning of time, humans have always emphasized the importance of physical health. We are taught to visit our doctors for routine checkups, stay up-to-date with the latest vaccinations, exercise at the gym for hours on end, and follow rigorous dietary plans so that our physical health remains in pristine shape. We endure all of this because of the societal notion that maintaining good physical health is the only way to experience a long and happy life.

Therefore, we strive to enhance our physical bodies each and every day, but what about the parts of the body that we can’t see? What about the elements of the brain that influence how our minds function? The key to living a long and happy life is more than what meets the eye. It requires more than just improving upon our physical health. It’s about checking in with the status of our mental health as well.

May is Mental Health Awareness month, a month that is completely dedicated to raising awareness for such an important yet extremely underrated issue. Mental health is often times overlooked in society because it is considered to be a sensitive and “taboo” subject. Far too many people don’t want to acknowledge the severity of mental illnesses because they don’t believe them to be true. This negative stigma is unfortunately the reason why so many people choose to suffer in silence and never reach out for help, due to the fear of being judged or shamed by others. Yet, it’s so crucial to disprove this idea and to let those who are suffering know that they are not alone.

It’s time to open up the discussion for mental health and make it a more comfortable subject to talk about. It’s time to start emphasizing the importance of mental health like we do physical health, because both are as equally important. It’s time to acknowledge that mental illnesses are just as legitimate as physical diseases, despite us not always being able to physically identify them.

So what should you do for the month of May, as well as every other month of the year, to contribute to mental health awareness?

1. Don’t judge a book by its cover.

You’ve probably heard this saying a million times, but it’s so true. Don’t classify someone who is diagnosed with a mental illness as anything less than a human being. They are not crazy. They are not insane. They are human.

2. Be compassionate to others.

Everyone is fighting a battle. You don’t know what goes on behind closed doors. Always show compassion, even to those you might not really know.

3. Tell someone you love them.

The simplest “I love you” can save someone from suffering alone. Love is the most powerful and comforting tool for regaining strength.

4. Be open with others and yourself.

If someone you know is struggling with a mental illness, be open to them. Sit with them, talk with them, support them, and find ways to help them. Or, if you feel as if you’re struggling with a mental illness, be open with someone else about what you are feeling. No one should ever suffer in silence.

5. Educate yourself.

Learn the facts. Research what types of mental illnesses are out there and determine ways to identify them. Look for the signs to help eliminate the problem before it becomes too late. Don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals for advice or help.