Treat Yo Self! A Story of Emotional Burnout

Our community is fighting and it’s a beautiful thing to see. From mental health statement selfies on Instagram to semicolon tattoos; more and more people who live with mental illness are sharing their stories on social media. If you check out #MentalHealthAwareness on social media, you’ll see and feel a mixture of emotions: pride, sadness, motivation, and inspiration. People living with mental illness are doing more work than ever to change the perception of mental health. It’s incredible.

Mental Health Impacts Everyone

Tamu Lewis is the Co-Founder of the Lee Thompson Young Foundation. She started the foundation with her mother, Dr. Velma Love, in honor of her brother, actor Lee Thompson Young, who died by suicide after struggling with bipolar disorder. The foundation seeks to end stigma associated with mental health through education, support, and resources. We asked her why her work is so important and how she approaches self-care. She says, "mental health impacts everyone and we need to be more aware of mental health challenges and resources in order to help ourselves and others."

Self-Care is Doing Things That Make You Feel Happy

When I think of self-care, I think of rest and relaxation but I also think of things that make me feel happy. I'm an avid TV watcher, chocolate eater, explorer, shopper, and coffee-drinker. I love spending time with my friends and family also. Self-care is important because it allows you to recharge and present your best you.