Mental Health Awareness Month: Simple Self-Care Ideas & Events to try this May
Since 1949, the United States has observed Mental Health Awareness Month in May. In addition to raising awareness about the impact of Mental Health conditions, this month is a time to reduce stigma, advocate for change, celebrate recovery, and promote understanding.
Mental health awareness isn’t just about recognizing conditions like depression or bipolar disorder—though that’s important too. The reality is that mental health affects everyone. Whether you're navigating anxiety, managing stress, coping with grief, or simply trying to stay balanced in a chaotic world, your mental well-being matters just as much as your physical health.
Check out our calendar of events below with a few ideas for some mental health reset activities, and keep scrolling for simple self-care ideas to help you take care of your mental health.
Self-care isn't all bubble baths and scented candles (even though yes, we love those too). It’s about building habits that nourish your body and mind, especially when life gets overwhelming. Here are a few simple ways to take care of your mental health:
1. Get Outside
Fresh air is a natural mood booster! A short walk, even just around the block, can help reset your brain.
🏞️ Check out the Washington Park Free Shuttle Loop Here!
2. Set Boundaries
It's okay to say no. It’s okay to not answer that text right away. Protecting your energy is essential.
🛑Read this article on setting healthy boundaries
3. Journaling or Sketching
Writing down or drawing what you're feeling can help you process emotions and reduce anxiety. Don’t worry about grammar, artistry, or structure—just get your thoughts out and feelings out!
✏️Self-Care & Empowerment Collage Workshop at Hoyt Arboretum, May 11th at 10:30 AM
Participate in Quest Center’s Art Activity during the month of May: Coloring Book patterns available in the lobby and during Nutrition Nights!
4. Move Your Body
Exercise isn't just for physical health—it can also improve your mood and reduce stress. Whether it’s yoga, dancing in your room, or hitting the gym, find what feels good for you.
🧘Quest Center’s Wellness Yoga Group is open to WISH, FSR/TRI/LINK, and MH Clients Mondays at 3 PM
💃🕺🏾Consider joining Quest Center’s Social Ballroom Dancing Group, Wednesdays at 5 PM
🥋Community Ki-Aikido at Equi Center, Thursdays at 5 PM
🚶Qi Gong open to WISH Clients, via Zoom and at Clackamas, Fridays at 11:30 AM
5. Connect with People Who Uplift You
Surround yourself with folks who get it, who support you, and who don’t make you feel like you have to hide how you’re really doing.
💜Sacred Grief Circle, Wednesday, May 7th at 7 PM
🌈Check out Queer Social Club for Portland Community Events
❤️Alano Club’s Mindful Self-Compassion Workshop
6. Switch Up Your Digital Digest
Social media can be overwhelming and draining. Try stepping away from apps like instagram or tik tok, even just for a day. See how it feels. Perhaps, you can try apps like:
🐤Finch - an app which encourages self-care through the creation and care of digital pet
🌎Explore.Org - an app and website featuring live animal cameras from around the world.
💙How We Feel app is a free journal for your well-being
7. Enjoy Music, Art, and Community Space
There’s a quiet power and deep vulnerability in sharing music and art—it’s a way of saying, “This is who I am,” and inviting others to see, feel, and connect with your inner self, offering comfort, connection, and a joyful reminder that you’re not alone in what you’re feeling.
🖼️ Free First Thursdays at Portland Art Museum May 1st 10am-7pm
🍿Every Little Thing/Woo woo self care SUNDAY @ Tomorrow Theater May 11th
🎶Cultural Performance: Koto by Mitsuki Dazai May 14th
🎨 Mt. Tabor Art Walk on May 17th and 18th
🍿Princess Mononoke at Tomorrow Theater May 24th
🍵Enjoy a cup of tea at Fly Awake Tea House
8. Talk to Someone
You don’t need to be in crisis to talk to a therapist or counselor. Therapy can be a game-changer for self-awareness, coping skills, and personal growth.
🤝Fireweed Collective - mutual aid oraganization w/group offerings, webinars, and resources
🧠Fill out Quest Center’s Mental Health Waitlist Request form here
Taking care of your mind is one of the most powerful things you can do, and raising awareness helps others do the same. Start where you are, take small steps, and remember: you are not alone in this.
If you're struggling, reach out. Help is real, and healing is possible.
In case of a mental health crisis please call:
Multnomah County Crisis Line: 503-988-4888
Washington County Crisis Line: 503-291-9111
Clackamas County Crisis Line (Riverstone): 503-655-8585