Image Credits: Ryan Lash / TED

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. This month is a time to talk about how important mental health is, to celebrate the advances we have made in mental health treatment, and talk about the important aspects of mental health and disorders that affect our mental health. I love learning from Ted Talks. They are quick bites from professionals in the field which can teach you about a new topic, or open up your mind to a new experience, all in just a few minutes. During Mental Health Awareness Month, I challenge you to watch a few of these Ted Talks on the topic. Then, share them with the people you know. Encourage a greater conversation about the importance of mental health in America and the world at large. 

A New Class of Drug That Could Prevent Depression and PTSD

This talk by Rebecca Brachman will look at the role drugs (aka pharmaceuticals) can play in mental health treatment and prevention. 

Our Dangerous Obsession with Perfectionism is Getting Worse

This talk by Thomas Curran looks at the role perfectionism, and its importance in an age of social media obsession, is playing in mental illness discussions. 

How Isolation Fuels Opioid Addiction

In a country ravaged by addiction, this talk by Rachel Wurzman looks at some of the societal aspects that go into addiction. 

The Brain Changing Benefit of Exercise

While we all know exercise can’t truly cure mental health issues, this talk by Wendy Suzuki looks at what it can do for the brain.

There’s No Shame in Taking Care of Your Mental Health

This must-see talk by Sangu Delle should be shared everytime someone says mental health isn’t a big deal. 

RELATED: 5 Ted Talks About Happiness You Need to Watch

What is Bipolar Disorder

This informative talk by Helen Farrell looks at what bipolar disorder is and what it is not, which is critical in times of misinformation and bad fictionalization of mental health issues. 

How to Stay Calm When You Know You’ll Be Stressed

This talk by Daniel Levitin is a must-watch for everyone, regardless of how “mentally healthy” you feel at the moment. 

Debunking the Myths of OCD

This talk by Natascha Santos is an informational look at obsessive compulsive disorder and the myths around it. It’s great for everyone, whether you’ve been diagnosed with OCD, know someone who has, or might not even recognize it.

The Voices in My Head

This talk by Eleanor Longden is an excellent look at schizophrenia from someone diagnosed with and living with it. 

Aryssa D

FFL Cabinet Member

Read more articles