Author: Shannon Gwash, Director of Rooted Behavioral Health
Colorado boasts 300+ days of sunshine per year. But today, I look out my rain-spotted window to the grey sky and growing puddles and think – “this is just like life, isn’t it?”
Although Colorado has an abundance of sunshine, there are still rainy, grey days. That is normal and to be expected. And although we may have incredible, happy lives, there are still times of sadness, anxiety, grief and stress. This is part of being human.
During the month of May, we take time to celebrate Mental Health Month. We work to break the stigma of struggling. We reduce barriers that keep people from accessing care. We acknowledge not every day feels like The Best Day Ever and that it’s ok to not be ok.
In a society that often rewards busyness, positivity, and “having it all together,” many of us are carrying more than we let people see. Caring for family members, work stress, financial burdens, health struggles, and the daily grind can all wear on us.
Mental health challenges don’t always show up loud and obvious.
Sometimes they look like –
- Being irritable or short-tempered with a child
- Withdrawing from friends or not responding to messages
- Trouble falling or staying asleep
- Skipping your evening walks
- Constant, overall exhaustion
- Choosing to eat out or fast food when you typically cook nourishing meals at home
And sometimes, they can look like someone who appears “just fine.”
This month is a reminder that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Rest is not laziness. And seeking treatment is a sign of courage, not failure.
If you’re in a season of rainy, grey days, please know you do not have to weather them alone – support, hope and brighter days still exist – even when you can’t currently see the sunshine.
If you are going through a rainy season and are ready to find balance, call us today: 720-826-3100.