During Mental Health Awareness Month this May, we’re taking time to recognize how unique each person’s experience is, and how important it is to stay informed, proactive, and engaged in your own care. We sat down with OCH’s Gregory Forrester, MNSc, PMHNP-BC, to explore some key reminders that can help anyone navigate their mental health with confidence and compassion.
Mental Health Changes, And That’s Normal
Your mental health can shift depending on the season, your life circumstances, or even just the events of a difficult week. Many people feel more vulnerable in the winter months, while others might be affected by stress at work, health challenges, or ongoing uncertainty in the world around them.
“A lot of people suffer from seasonal depression, especially during the winter,” Forrester explains. “Situational stressors, like relationships, finances, the political climate, or your physical health can all play a role. These factors change, and so does our mental state.”
Recognizing that change is a normal part of the mental health journey can help us show ourselves more patience and encourage us to reach out when we need extra support.
Your Experience Is the Most Important Tool in Your Care
Because mental health isn’t measured through a lab test, your provider relies on your own experience, your thoughts, feelings, patterns, and self-reported symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
“Mental health is very subjective,” says Forrester. “There is no diagnostic test—it all comes down to an accurate history and how a person presents. Patients are truly the best advocates for themselves.”
That means your honesty and insight are essential. And when it comes to treatment, especially medication, staying open about how you’re feeling can make a big difference.
“Two of the most common reasons people stop taking antidepressants are sexual dysfunction and weight gain,” Forrester notes. “The person might be benefiting from the medication, but if they don’t feel comfortable talking to their provider, changes might be made that don’t work as well.”
Instead of silently pushing through or giving up, let your provider know what you’re experiencing. Sometimes small adjustments or supportive strategies can make a big impact without derailing your progress.
Track What Matters and Trust What You Feel
If something doesn’t feel right, even if you can’t quite describe it, it’s worth paying attention to. Vague symptoms like low energy, irritability, or sleep issues might be part of a larger picture.
“Everybody is different, and there’s no way to predict exactly how someone will respond to a medication,” Forrester says. “Keeping a journal of symptoms or side effects, along with when and how they occur can be incredibly helpful.”
This kind of self-awareness is especially useful when life transitions affect your mental health, like the shift from the school year into summer. Whether you or your child are managing an IEP plan, ongoing counseling, or general stress, summer can disrupt routines that support mental wellness.
Taking time to plan ahead, explore available resources, or connect with a provider for a summer check-in can make all the difference.
Everyone’s mental health journey is different, and that’s exactly why your voice and experiences matter so much. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s remember that we don’t need to have all the answers, we just need to stay curious, stay honest, and stay connected. To connect with a mental health provider like Gregory Forrester, visit ochonline.com/doctors/ today.