I am glad to see that within the last few days that the words, “mental health” and “mental illness” have been readily used in conversations especially by the media and politicians. Whether it is being used correctly or not, it is still being mentioned. Does this mean that we can expect...?🤔

• ​More School Counselors
  
• The Veteran’s Administration to hire Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs)
• MEDICARE to pay for Counseling services provided by a LPC
  
• More beds available at Psychiatric Facilities
  
• More funding for mental health & counseling programs
• Reinstatement of law that restricted some with mental disabilities from purchasing firearms
• Empathy in all situations when a teen uses violence
  
• During election time, Voters to remember the people that lost their lives, survivors, families and friends who are left to mourn and affected by gun violence

Well Minds & Mental Health Matters.

Hearts, Balloons, Teddy Bears, Red Roses, Cards, and Chocolates are everywhere —in the stores, TV commercials, and people even selling them roadside. They are all sentiments of Valentine’s Day, February 14. People tend to profess or express their love through these gifts and other gestures. Whether it is having dinner with someone or receiving a gift, it can cause a person to smile or feel special.

However, not everybody looks forward to Valentine’s Day. Some even dread it because it causes them to feel left out, alone, or unloved if they don’t receive such expressions of love or have a special someone to share it with. Of course, Valentine’s Day is made out to be a couples or romantic day, but it is also about Love which begins within (Self-Love).

​Consider treating and showing yourself some love. Make it a day about you. Be Your Own Valentine. Here are a few ideas:

• ​Get a massage
• Get a pedicure and/manicure
• Cook your favorite meal
• Have a party and invite others over
• Most of all, Love Yourself

If you can think of some other ways to Be Your Own Valentine, let me know in the comment box.
❤️Happy Valentine’s Day

Focus on the “WHAT-IS” instead of the WHAT-IF”... spare yourself of some depression, anxiety, and worry. WHAT DO YOU THINK?