You may have heard: it's Mental Health Awareness Month. Have you taken a moment to check in?

As Chair of our Wisconsin Mental Health, Substance Abuse Prevention, and Children and Families Committee, I have attended a number of seminars about mental health in the last year. There is a lot of great information developing about how we can make our policies and laws better, as well as how we can improve our state's mental health systems. We have even had some great mental health laws signed this session that will fund mental health in our schools, give trained support to police when responding to a mental health call, and increase hospital reimbursements.

All of this is wonderful, but what does it mean for our real lives? One common resource that we ALL need comes to mind: someone to talk to. We need to normalize asking each other real, honest questions and getting out what is troubling us on the inside. In our day-to-day, we can all work on getting better at asking people, "How are you REALLY doing?" Maybe we need to ask a family member directly and honestly about whether they are struggling with depression or anxiety. Maybe we ourselves need to go see a counselor or mental health professional.

Sometimes the thought of an awkward conversation or not knowing what to do can keep us from initiating. Just remember, even simply being there for someone can make all the difference. None of us are meant to go through life alone.

Here is one tip to help: you can ask someone what they need and want in the moment. Say to them, "Do you want me to HEAR you right now? Do you want me to HELP you? Or do you just need a hug?"

Your mental health matters. YOU matter. Whatever you have been through or whatever you are facing, you are not alone.

God Bless,