Although Minority Mental Health Month has come to a close, it is important to continue to acknowledge the importance of this topic in our society and pop culture. Recently, gymnast Simone Biles made a statement expressing that she would be stepping back from the Olympics in order to prioritize her mental health. As Biles is such a vital part of the USA Gymnastics Team, her decision was very controversial. Many argued that mental health is not a legitimate cause to step back from one’s career or simply states that Biles was “giving up.” However, these claims could not be further from reality. Simone Biles showed bravery in her decision and served as a role model for many young people who struggle to prioritize their mental health today.

Another athlete who has shown this bravery is Naomi Osaka. Osaka is a professional Japanese tennis player who withdrew from the French Open in order to maintain her mental health. It is crucial that we support these women and many others who have taken this step to prioritize their well-being. The article below caught our attention because it sheds light on the fact that emotional breaks are just necessary as physical ones.

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“You Are Not Alone” – National Alliance on Mental Illness

As one of the designated charities from the Pavé The Way® Community, NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization that has been working towards a world where those who are affected by mental illness are able to live a healthy life while being supported by a community that cares. With over 600 NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates across the country, NAMI offers support, educational programs, and opportunities for those wanting to be part of the caring community.

NATIONAL ALLIANCE on MENTAL ILLNESS