Harry Shum Jr. And Zoe Saldana Share Their Personal Mental Health Journeys In the ‘Getting Better Together’ Campaign
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Mental Health Awareness Month is going on right now and this year, Americans are struggling more than ever. The pandemic has forced us all into our homes, shutting us off from our communities and our support systems. For people who already struggle with mental health issues like depression and anxiety, the isolation of the pandemic simply exacerbated our problems. For children, the problem is even worse.
The Child Mind Institute launched its yearly campaign for mental health awareness. This time, the campaign is called “Getting Better Together”. The campaign is meant to give support, encouragement and connection to kids struggling during this unprecedented time.
Celebrities like Zoe Saldana, Harry Shum Jr., Diego Boneta and Jordana Brewster, and many more, will be sharing personal videos of their mental health journeys for the “Getting Better Together” campaign.
Recently, Costa Rican-American actor and dancer Harry Shum Jr. shared his mental health checklist for dealing with anxiety and depression.
“You’re not alone if you’re feeling anxious, dealing with anxiety or depression, because I’ve felt that way, not just this past year, but all my life,” he started the video. “Over time, you just find things that will help you through those times.” He then shared what helps him stay in good mental shape.
“My checklists are very, very simple things,” he said. “Are you getting enough sleep? Two is, are you eating the right things that are helping repair your body that are giving you nutrition? And if you’re not, then you might want to take a look at that.”
“And then three, what I love to do, I love to dance and sing and exercise, and sometimes just lifting weights and sometimes just dancing and acting like a goofball by myself in the room, and sometimes doing it with other people if it’s safe to do. And other times it’s really just about having a good conversation with someone that will listen and that you’ll do the same for them.”
Harry Shum Jr.’s advice is both incredibly helpful and spot-on. Mental health experts agree that sleep, a healthy diet, exercise, and talking about your feelings as excellent methods of dealing with mental health issues.
Dominicana actress and sci-fi queen Zoë Saldaña also revealed her personal mental health journey in her Getting Better Together video.
“Growing up with ADHD and dyslexia meant school was challenging,” Saldaña said. “I can’t imagine how hard a year like we’ve just had would be for kids who face the same classroom struggles that I did. Adjusting to remote learning, trying to stay focused on a screen hour after hour.”
She continued: “I know some of you may need more help. And it’s really brave and empowering when you ask for it. From a teacher, from a coach, and from your family. I remember when I reached out for help and it was such a relief.”
According to the Child Mind Institute, 1 in 5 young Americans struggle with a mental health or learning disorder. Additionally, they also estimate that today, 5 in 5 young Americans are feeling increased anxiety, fear, and uncertainty because of the pandemic. Now, more than ever, we need to open a dialogue with younger people about mental health. Let them know they’re not alone.
Learn more about the Getting Better Together campaign at www.childmind.org or follow them on their social media channels.