Embracing Mental Health Awareness Month: The Importance of Boundaries

April showers brought sunshine and May flowers, but April also ushered in something profound that connects us all—Mental Health Awareness Month, which is recognized throughout May.

The National Council of Mental Wellbeing recently stated, “**There’s no health without mental health**.” That quote really resonates with me.

My Journey of Self-Care

This Mental Health Awareness Month, I want to be intentional about defining wellbeing. I aim to lean into what it truly looks like for me right now, in this season of my life.

In the past, my wellbeing revolved around running six miles at 7 AM, drinking matcha green tea, and hiking. These days? My focus has shifted.

What’s non-negotiable for me now is what I affectionately call “cricketing.” This involves lying in bed, rubbing my limbs together, and binge-watching Netflix. It might sound simple (or even lazy), but it’s my method of guarding my attention.

This practice allows me to conserve energy when I’m emotionally drained or mentally exhausted. It helps me check in with myself, honor my needs, and exercise the importance of the “B”: Boundaries.

Boundaries for Wellbeing

We live in an era where staying connected is the norm. Social media, emails, texts, and DMs mean we are constantly available.

But just because we *can* be reached… should we be?

Today, I want to emphasize that boundaries, however you build them, are not walls. They are loving filters that protect your peace. They create space for you to rest, reflect, and recharge. When you practice boundaries, you can show up as your best self instead of your most depleted version.

In both personal and professional contexts, unclear or nonexistent boundaries can lead to burnout. But worse, they can breed resentment.

Not long ago—perhaps two years back (and if you ask my husband, he'd say it was last week)—I believed being available 24/7 made me a better colleague, daughter, and friend. I responded to every email within minutes.

I took work calls after 5 PM and said yes even when I was burning the candle at both ends. What I didn’t realize was that this “always available” mindset was unsustainable. It cost me more than I realized, leading to missed opportunities, declining energy, and emotional burnout.

To Exercise the “B,” We Need an Audit

This Mental Health Awareness Month, I invite you to join me in conducting a Boundary Audit. You might wonder—what is a Boundary Audit?

A boundary audit is a reflective check-in. It’s a moment to assess who and what has access to your energy and whether those access points align with your values, peace, and priorities.

I’m not suggesting you quit your job or cut people off. Instead, let’s give ourselves permission to engage in difficult questions and redefine our wellbeing.

Here are a few questions I plan to keep asking myself:

• Who and what currently has access to my energy?

• Do I have boundaries that need to be strengthened—personally or professionally?

• Am I caring for my mind and body as I do for others?

• Who or what are the three things that consistently fill my cup?

  
  

The Importance of Self-Care

In this journey toward mental wellbeing, self-care must not be overlooked. Prioritizing your needs means caring for yourself as you would care for a friend. Self-care looks different for everyone, and that’s okay.

Engage in activities that make you feel good. Whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or enjoying your favorite hobby, find time for those moments. Remember, self-care is an act of love, not indulgence.

One Small Ask

Your time and attention are two of your most valuable resources. Invest them wisely. Remember: if nothing else, exercising the “B” isn’t selfish. It’s a revolutionary act of self-preservation. This act allows you to show up fully for the people and things that truly matter.

Let’s inspire each other! Conduct your boundary audit, and recognize the individuals, spaces, and activities that make you feel lighter, more grounded, and more you.

What boundary will you strengthen this Mental Health Awareness Month?

Will you share it in the comments? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Consider how prioritizing mental health can transform your life. It starts with understanding your limits and practicing self-care.