Mental Health Week

This Mental Health Week (May 5–11), the theme is Unmasking Mental Health—and it shines a light on something many of us know all too well: the pressure to hide what we’re really going through. Whether it’s stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health and substance use challenges, we often feel the need to present a version of ourselves that feels “acceptable” to those around us. But pretending everything is okay when it’s not? That’s SO exhausting.

What is Masking?

Masking is the invisible effort it takes to hide our pain, confusion, or vulnerability. And while it might feel safer in the moment, it often leads to deeper isolation, quieting the parts of us that most need to be seen and supported. We know why we mask ourselves. Years of stigma around mental health challenges, and a culture that expects us to always answer “I’m good” to “How are you?”, have created a world that often isn’t accepting of emotions outside of happiness. It can feel incredibly vulnerable to show up authentically, especially with people we don’t know well, and sometimes, it even feels embarrassing to admit we’re not doing okay. We don’t want to be a burden. We don’t want to seem weak. So we keep it in… and the mask stays on.

Unmasking Mental Health

In my own mental health journey, I’ve come to realize that everyone is carrying something. And while it can feel scary at first, choosing to open up—whether it’s sharing our story, checking in on a friend, or simply saying “I’m not okay”—is an act of courage. Vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s a strength. It invites connection, builds empathy, and helps break down the very stigma that keeps so many of us silent. When we show up as our full selves, we remind others (and ourselves) that we’re not alone—and that’s incredibly powerful.

Vulnerability and Connection

So, during Mental Health Week, give yourself a little grace. Take small steps to gently set down the mask that may be hiding the parts of you longing for care, support, and connection. Find someone you trust, whether it’s a long-time friend or just someone in your life who gives you a feeling of safety, and see what happens when you can confidently tell someone else ,”I’m not okay right now”. Behind the mask is a unique, complex, beautiful, strong and resilient human being — YOU! <3